6 26 14 Political Typology Release

FOR RELEASE JUNE 26, 2014
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

ON THIS REPORT:
Michael Dimock, Vice President, Research
Carroll Doherty, Director of Political Research
Jocelyn Kiley, Associate Director, Research
Vidya Krishnamurthy, Communications Director
202.419.4372
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RECOMMENDED CITATION: Pew Research Center, June, 2014, Beyond Red vs. Blue: The Political Typology
NUMBERS, FACTS AND TRENDS SHAPING THE WORLD

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About This Report
This is the second report of a multi-part series based on a national survey of 10,013 adults
nationwide, conducted January 23-March 16, 2014 by the Pew Research Center. The survey,
funded in part through grants from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the John D. and
Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation and supported by the generosity of Don C. and Jeane M.
Bertsch, is aimed at understanding the nature and scope of political polarization in the American
public, and how it interrelates with government, society and peoples personal lives.
Principal Researchers
Jocelyn Kiley, Associate Director, Research
Scott Keeter, Director of Survey Research
Carroll Doherty, Director of Political Research
Alec Tyson, Senior Researcher

Research Team
Juliana Menasce Horowitz, Associate Director
Kyley McGeeney, Research Methodologist
Rob Suls, Research Associate
Jeffrey Gottfried, Research Associate
Danielle Gewurz, Research Analyst
Seth Motel, Research Analyst
Matt Frei, Research Assistant
Meredith Dost, Research Assistant
Hannah Fingerhut, Research Intern
Graphic Design
Jessica Schillinger, Information Graphics Designer
Diana Yoo, Art Director

Interactives
Adam Nekola, Web Developer
Russell Heimlich, Web Developer

Publishing
Michael Suh, Web Production Coordinator

Colleagues from across the Pew Research Center contributed greatly to the development and
execution of this research series. We would especially like to thank Alan Murray, Paul Taylor,
Michael Piccorossi, Vidya Krishnamurthy, Claudia Deane, Sara Goo, Bruce Drake, Andrea
Caumont, Elizabeth Mueller Gross, Amy Mitchell, Lee Rainie and Cary Funk for their
methodological and editorial contributions. Above all, we want to thank Andy Kohut, our founding
director, for his wisdom and guidance, and for building this institution and inventing the political
typology 27 years ago.
Douglas Steinley of the University of Missouri provided invaluable help with the cluster analysis
that created the political typology. We also benefited from methodological assistance from staff at
Abt SRBI, which collected the data (Charles DiSogra, Courtney Kennedy, Mark Schulman, Chintan

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Turakhia, Dean Williams), and from Jim Bell, Kyley McGeeney and Steve Schwarzer of the Pew
Research Center.
About Pew Research Center
Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes
and trends shaping America and the world. It does not take policy positions. It conducts public
opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science
research. The center studies U.S. politics and policy views; media and journalism; internet and
technology; religion and public life; Hispanic trends; global attitudes and U.S. social and demo-
graphic trends. All of the centers reports are available at www.pewresearch.org. Pew Research
Center is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts.
Alan Murray, President
Elizabeth Mueller Gross, Vice President
Paul Taylor, Executive Vice President, Special Projects
Andrew Kohut, Founding Director
Managing Directors
Jim Bell, Director of International Survey Research
Alan Cooperman, Director, Pew Research Centers Religion & Public Life Project
Claudia Deane, Director, Research Practices
Carroll Doherty, Director, Pew Research Center for the People & the Press
Scott Keeter, Director of Survey Research
Vidya Krishnamurthy, Communications Director
Mark Hugo Lopez, Director of Hispanic Research
Amy Mitchell, Director of Journalism Research
Kim Parker, Director of Social Trends
Lee Rainie, Director, Pew Research Centers Internet & American Life Project
Richard Wike, Director of Global Attitudes

Pew Research Center 2014

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Table of Contents
Overview 1
Section 1: The Political Typology, Identity and Attitudes 15
Descriptions of the typology groups and their ideological consistency; partisanship; recent voting
preferences; opinions about compromise; views of the parties, Tea Party and political figures
Section 2: Views of the Nation, the Constitution and Government 33
Future of the country; American Exceptionalism; constitutional interpretation;core American values;
trust in government; role of government
Section 3: Fairness of the Economic System, Views of the Poor and the Social Safety Net 41
Economic fairness; attitudes about business, Wall Street, aid to the poor, individual success
Section 4: Views on Immigration and Race 47
Immigration policy, racial equality, affirmative action
Section 5: Views on Religion, the Bible, Evolution and Social Issues 53
Belief in God, Biblical interpretation, evolution; views on homosexuality, same-sex marriage, abortion,
family and marriage, Islam
Section 6: Foreign Affairs, Terrorism and Privacy 61
Activism in world affairs, military strength, privacy and the NSA, free trade, relationship with China
Section 7: Global Warming, Environment and Energy 69
Global warming, environmental regulation, energy priorities, Keystone XL pipeline,
Section 8: Health Care, Marijuana, Common Core, Other Domestic Issues 75
Affordable Care Act, Social Security, marijuana, gun policy, Common Core, gambling
Section 9: Patriotism, Personal Traits, Lifestyles and Demographics 81
Section 10: Political Participation, Interest and Knowledge 93
Appendix 1: Typology Group Profiles 99
Appendix 2: About the Political Typology 115
Appendix 3: About the Surveys 123
Appendix 4: Survey Toplines 131

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1

Overview
Even in an increasingly Red vs. Blue nation, the publics political attitudes and values come in
many shades and hues.
Partisan polarization the vast and growing
gap between Republicans and Democrats is a
defining feature of politics today. But beyond
the ideological wings, which make up a
minority of the public, the political landscape
includes a center that is large and diverse,
unified by frustration with politics and little
else. As a result, both parties face formidable
challenges in reaching beyond their bases to
appeal to the middle of the electorate and build
sustainable coalitions.
The latest Pew Research Center political
typology, which sorts voters into cohesive
groups based on their attitudes and values,
provides a field guide for this constantly
changing landscape. Before reading further,
take our quiz to see where you fit in the
typology
The new typology has eight groups: Three are
strongly ideological, highly politically engaged
and overwhelmingly partisan two on the right
and one on the left. Steadfast
Conservatives are staunch critics of
government and the social safety net and are
very socially conservative. Business
Conservatives share Steadfast Conservatives
preference for limited government, but differ in
their support for Wall Street and business, as
well as immigration reform. And Business Conservatives are far more moderate on social issues
than are Steadfast Conservatives.
The 2014 Political Typology:
Polarized Wings, a Diverse Middle
Percent of

General
public
Regist.
voters
Politically
engaged
% % %
The Partisan Anchors 36 43 57
Steadfast Conservatives 12 15 19
Socially conservative populists

Business Conservatives 10 12 17
Pro-Wall Street, pro-immigrant

Solid Liberals 15 17 21
Liberal across-the-board

Less Partisan, Less Predictable 54 57 43
Young Outsiders 14 15 11
Conservative views on
government, not social issues

Hard-Pressed Skeptics 13 13 9
Financially stressed and
pessimistic

Next Generation Left 12 13 11
Young, liberal on social issues,
less so on social safety net

Faith and Family Left 15 16 12
Racially diverse and religious

Bystanders 10 0 0
Young, diverse, on the
sidelines of politics
100 100 100
N 10,013 7,999 4,767
2014 Political Typology. Figures may not add to 100% because of
rounding. The politically engaged are registered to vote, closely
follow public affairs and say they always or nearly always vote.
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At the other end of the spectrum, Solid Liberals express liberal attitudes across almost every
realm government, the economy and business and foreign policy, as well as on race,
homosexuality and abortion and are reliable and loyal Democratic voters.
Taken together, these three groups form the electoral base of the Democratic and Republican
Parties, and their influence on American politics is strong. While Solid Liberals, Steadfast
Conservatives and Business Conservatives collectively make up only 36% of the American public,
they represent 43% of registered voters and fully 57% of the more politically engaged segment of
the American public: those who regularly vote and routinely follow government and public affairs.
The other typology groups are less partisan, less predictable and have little in common with each
other or the groups at either end of the political spectrum. The one thing they do share is that they
are less engaged politically than the groups on the right or left.
Young Outsiders lean Republican but do not have a strong allegiance to the Republican Party;
in fact they tend to dislike both political parties. On many issues, from their support for
environmental regulation to their liberal views on social issues, they diverge from traditional GOP
orthodoxy. Yet in their support for limited government, Young Outsiders are firmly in the
Republicans camp.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics have been battered by the struggling economy, and their difficult
financial circumstances have left them resentful of both government and business. Despite their
criticism of government performance, they back more generous government support for the poor
and needy. Most Hard-Pressed Skeptics say they voted for Obama in 2012, though fewer than half
approve of his job performance today.
The Next Generation Left are young, relatively affluent and very liberal on social issues like
same-sex marriage and abortion. But they have reservations about the cost of social programs.
And while most of the Next Generation Left support affirmative action, they decisively reject the
idea that racial discrimination is the main reason why many blacks are unable to get ahead.
The Faith and Family Left lean Democratic, based on their confidence in government and
support for federal programs to address the nations problems. But this very religious, racially and
ethnically diverse group is uncomfortable with the pace of societal change, including the
acceptance of homosexuality and non-traditional family structures.
And finally, an eighth group, the Bystanders, representing 10% of the public, are on the sidelines
of the political process. They are not registered to vote and pay very little attention to politics.
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The political typology sorts people into groups based on their attitudes and values, not their
partisan labels. It is based on the largest political survey ever undertaken by the Pew Research
Center, which also was the data source for our June 12 report Political Polarization in the
American Public. The survey was conducted among 10,013 adults from January to March of this
year. The report also includes data from follow-
up interviews with many of the initial surveys
respondents as part of the Pew Research
Centers newly-created American Trends Panel.
The polarization study found that more
Americans today hold consistently liberal or
consistently conservative values across a wide
range of issues, that Democrats and
Republicans are further apart ideologically and
that more partisans express deeply negative
views of the other political party, with many
going so far as to see the other side as a threat
to the nations well-being.
Even so, most Americans do not view politics
through uniformly liberal or conservative
lenses, and more tend to stand apart from
partisan antipathy than engage in it. But the
typology shows that the center is hardly unified.
Rather, it is a combination of groups, each with
their own mix of political values, often held just
as strongly as those on the left and the right, but just not organized in consistently liberal or
conservative terms. Taken together, this center looks like it is halfway between the partisan
wings. But when disaggregated, it becomes clear that there are many distinct voices in the center,
often with as little in common with each other as with those who are on the left and the right.
The Pew Research Centers political typology, launched 27 years ago, is an effort to look beyond
Red vs. Blue in American politics, understanding that there are multiple dimensions to American
political thinking, and that many people hold different combinations of values than the
predominantly liberal and conservative platforms offered by the two political parties.
Ideological Consistency vs. the Political
Typology
Earlier this year, the Pew Research Center conducted a
survey of 10,013 adults nationwide as part of a broad
investigation of political changes in the nation. The first
report on this data focused on political polarization and used
10 survey questions on political values to gauge how
ideologically consistent Americans have become on a
traditional left-right index.

The Political Typology represents an entirely different
approach to analyzing the American publics values. It looks
at a broader range of questions (23 questions) and instead
of focusing on a single left-right dimension it uses a cluster
analysis to find groups of Americans with similar views
across multiple dimensions. While more complex, the
typology reveals fissures on the right and left that are not
evident in a simpler left-right array. Moreover, it sheds light
on the diversity of values represented in the center.

The two approaches complement one another: Most of the
Solid Liberals are consistently liberal in their values, and the
Steadfast Conservatives and Business Conservatives
combined make up nearly all of the consistent
conservatives. See Section 1 for a further discussion of how
these two approaches relate to each other.
2014 Political Typology.
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The new study highlights the challenges that both parties face heading into the 2014 and 2016
elections. Each can count on strong support from the three staunchly partisan groups; Steadfast
Conservatives and Business Conservatives on the right, and Solid Liberals on the left. In all three
groups, 2014 midterm preferences are comparable to the overwhelming support these groups gave
their partys presidential candidate in 2012.
The middle groups in the typology are less
predictable. To be sure, the Faith and Family
Left and the Next Generation Left favor
Democratic congressional candidates this year
by roughly two-to-one margins. But they
supported Barack Obama by wider margins in
2012, and their 2014 turnout is suspect. One
early indicator of voter turnout is attention to
government and public affairs, and fewer than
half in these groups are following politics,
compared with broad majorities in the more
ideological groups.
Middle Typology Groups Least Likely to
Follow Government & Public Affairs
% following government & public affairs most of the
time

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65
43
46
43
42
75
68
48
Solid Liberals
Faith and Family Left
Next Generation Left
Hard-Pressed Skeptics
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
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6
27
27
37
53
88
88
44
88
63
61
51
33
6
6
46
Rep candidate Dem candidate
2012
Margin
D+11
D+54
D+44
D+40
R+11
R+75
R+82
D+88
2014
Margin
D+2
D+36
D+34
D+14
R+20
R+82
R+82
D+82 3
21
26
25
50
84
87
41
91
75
70
65
39
9
5
52
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Obama Romney
And the Hard-Pressed Skeptics who say they supported Obama over Romney by a 65%-25%
margin two years ago are more closely divided in 2014. As they look toward this years midterms,
51% plan to vote for the Democrat in their congressional district, while 37% plan to vote
Republican. And the Republican-leaning Young Outsiders intend to vote Republican this fall by a
somewhat larger margin (20 points) than they did in 2012 (11 points). Yet these groups also are
less certain to turn out this fall compared with the more partisan bases.

Voting Preferences of the Typology Groups
% who voted/intend to vote for
2012 Presidential Vote 2014 Congressional Preference

2014 Political Typology. Based on registered voters. 2012 vote based on those who recalled their vote. Other candidates not shown.
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The typology study may have even greater relevance for understanding 2016, both for the
nomination contests and the general election. In both parties electoral coalitions, there are
fissures on some of the most important dimensions in American politics.
On the right, coalitional politics are focused on the Steadfast Conservatives and Business
Conservatives, both of whom lean Republican by overwhelming margins. Combined they make up
about a quarter (27%) of all registered voters.
Both groups are overwhelmingly white and mostly male; Steadfast Conservatives are older on
average (67% age 50 and older) than Business Conservatives (53%). And while they represent two
clearly different wings of the party one more
downscale and pessimistic, one more wealthy
and optimistic both are reliable GOP voting
blocs.
Steadfast Conservatives and Business
Conservatives agree that government should be
smaller and play less of a role in the economy.
They are unified in their intense opposition to
President Obama fully 94% of Steadfast
Conservatives and 96% of Business
Conservatives disapprove of his job
performance. Notably, nearly identical shares of
both groups agree with the Tea Party (55% of
Business Conservatives, 53% of Steadfast
Conservatives).
But these conservative groups differ in three
important ways on policy debates that currently
divide Republican leaders in Washington.
First, Steadfast Conservatives take very
conservative views on key social issues like
homosexuality and immigration, while Business
Conservatives are less conservative if not
actually progressive on these issues. Nearly
Steadfast, Business Conservatives
Differ over Immigration, Homosexuality
Where they generally
agree
Steadfast
Cons
Business
Cons
Steadfast-
Bus. diff
% %
Disapprove of Barack
Obamas job performance 94 96 -2
Govt is almost always
wasteful & inefficient 91 88 +3
Govt is doing too many
things better left to
businesses and individuals 87 90 -3
Govt aid to the poor does
more harm than good 86 80 +6
U.S. has been successful
more because of reliance
on long-standing principles 78 71 +7
Agree with Tea Party
movement 53 55 -2

Where they differ
Immigrants today are a
burden because they take
jobs, housing, health care 73 21 +52
Homosexuality should be
discouraged by society 74 31 +43
U.S. efforts to solve world
problems usually end up
making things worse 55 20 +35
Wall Street helps economy
more than it hurts 49 74 -25
As Americans, we can
always find ways to solve
problems 41 62 -21
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three-quarters of Steadfast Conservatives (74%) believe that homosexuality should be discouraged
by society. Among Business Conservatives, just 31% think homosexuality should be discouraged;
58% believe it should be accepted.
Business Conservatives have generally positive attitudes toward immigrants and 72% favor a path
to citizenship for those in the U.S. illegally, if they meet certain conditions. Steadfast
Conservatives are more critical of immigrants; 50% support a path to citizenship, the lowest share
of any typology group.
Second, just as Steadfast Conservatives are opposed to big government, they also are skeptical of
big business. They believe that large corporations have too much power, and nearly half (48%) say
the economic system unfairly favors powerful interests. By contrast, as their name suggests,
Business Conservatives are far more positive about the free market, and overwhelmingly regard
business and Wall Street positively.
Finally, these two conservative groups differ over foreign policy. Steadfast Conservatives have
doubts about U.S. international engagement and view free trade agreements as a bad thing for
the U.S. while Business Conservatives are more supportive of the U.S. taking an active role in
world affairs and free trade.
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Solid Liberals, who constitute 15% of the public and 17% of registered voters, are the anchor of the
Democratic Partys electoral coalition the most avid and loyal voters, holding liberal views across
nearly all issues.
But the party must rely on
support from the other
Democratically-oriented
groups in the typology the
Faith and Family Left and
Next Generation Left to be
successful. While each of these
groups leans Democratic by
wide margins, they diverge
from across-the-board liberal
thinking in a number of
critical ways that have
implications for their loyalty
and turnout.
The Faith and Family Left is
by far the most racially and
ethnically diverse group in the
typology: In fact, just 41% are
white non-Hispanic; 30% are
black, 19% are Hispanic and
8% are other or mixed race.
The Faith and Family Left also
is less affluent and less
educated than the other
Democratically-oriented groups, and is older as well.
They also have strong religious convictions, which distinguishes them from Solid Liberals and the
Next Generation Left. Fully 91% say it is necessary to believe in God in order to be moral and have
good values. No more than about one-in-ten in the other Democratically-oriented groups agree.
And the Faith and Family Left have much more conservative positions on social issues. Just 37%
favor same-sex marriage, less than half the share of the other two groups on the left.
Strains in the Democratic Coalition over Morality,
Homosexuality, Expanding the Social Safety Net

Solid
Liberals
Faith and
Family Left
Next Gen
Left
Key demographics % % %
White 69 41 68
Non-white 29 57 31
Under 40 41 31 52
College grad+ 52 18 38

Where they generally agree
Approve of Barack Obamas job
performance 84 61 66
Government often does a better job
than it gets credit for 70 63 67
Immigrants today strengthen our
country because of hard work, talents 93 70 83
Sometimes laws to protect people from
themselves are necessary 77 75 68
Where they differ
Necessary to believe in God to be moral 11 91 7
Most people who want to get ahead can
make it if theyre willing to work hard 29 82 77
Racial discrimination is the main reason
many black people cant get ahead 80 31 19
Homosexuality should be accepted by
society 93 43 88
Govt should do more for needy even if
it means going deeper into debt 83 58 39
2014 Political Typology. Whites do not include Hispanics; non-whites include Hispanics,
African Americans, Asian Americans and those of another or mixed race.
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The Faith and Family Left support activist government and a strong social safety net, though by
less overwhelming margins than Solid Liberals. And while the Faith and Family Left support
affirmative action programs, just 31% believe that racial discrimination is the main reason many
black people cant get ahead these days. Among the much less racially diverse Solid Liberals, 80%
think racial discrimination is the main barrier to black progress.
The Next Generation Left is the youngest of the typology groups. Roughly half (52%) are younger
than 40, and this segment characterizes the liberal leanings of the Millennial (and younger Gen X)
cohorts: The Next Generation Left embrace diversity, are generally positive about what
government can do and are relatively upbeat about their own and the nations future.
Yet in critical ways, the Next Generation Left have clear differences with Solid Liberals. While
supportive of government, they have a fairly individualistic take on opportunity and self-
achievement. As a result, they balk at the costs of expanding the social safety net just 39% say
the government should do more to help needy Americans even if it means going deeper into debt.
In addition, the Next Generation Left are less skeptical about business than the other
Democratically-oriented groups. While they are no more likely than Solid Liberals to have
investments in the stock market, a majority of the Next Generation Left (56%) say that Wall Street
does more to help the economy than hurt it, compared with 36% of Solid Liberals.
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The wild cards in the new political typology are the Young Outsiders and the Hard-Pressed
Skeptics. Both groups have weak partisan
leanings, which are reflected in their early
preferences in this falls midterms: Young
Outsiders favor the Republican candidate, or
lean Republican, by a 53% to 33% margin;
Hard-Pressed Skeptics plan to vote Democratic
by 51% to 37%.
Whether many will show up at the polls is an
open question: They are less likely than the core
partisan typology groups to say they always
vote.
Nonetheless, Young Outsiders may present an
attractive opportunity for the GOP. They are
younger and more diverse than Republicans
generally. Nearly half are under 40, compared
with just 33% among all Republicans. Yet
Young Outsiders do not feel very favorably
toward the GOP; in fact, nearly as many have a
favorable opinion of the Democratic Party
(34%) as the Republican Party (39%).
Young Outsiders share Republicans deep
opposition to increased government spending
on social programs. About three-quarters of Young Outsiders (76%) say the government cant
afford to spend more to help the needy.
However, the Young Outsiders generational imprint on issues like homosexuality, diversity and
the environment make the Republican Party an uncomfortable fit. In views of societal acceptance
of homosexuality, for instance, Young Outsiders have more liberal views than the public overall,
and are much more liberal than Republicans.
Similarly, Hard-Pressed Skeptics have ambivalent views of the Democratic Party and disagree with
Democrats on major issues as often, if not more, as they agree. Hard-Pressed Skeptics face the
Young Outsiders Share Republicans
Views on Government, Not Social Issues
Key demographics
Total
public
Rep/Rep
leaners
Young
Outsiders
% % %
White 66 81 73
Non-white 33 18 26
Under 40 38 33 48

Political views
Obama job approval 44 12 31
Fav view of Rep Party 37 68 39
Fav view of Dem Party 46 14 34

Govt cant afford to do
much more for needy 51 73 76
wasteful and inefficient 56 75 75

Stricter environmental
laws, regs are worth cost 56 37 68
Homosexuality should
be accepted by society 62 49 78
Favor legalization of
marijuana 54 43 67
2014 Political Typology. Whites do not include Hispanics; non-
whites include Hispanics, African Americans, Asian Americans and
those of another or mixed race.
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most difficult financial circumstances of any of
the typology groups, More than half (56%) have
family incomes of less than $30,000 a year and
67% say they often dont have enough money to
make ends meet.
In 2012, Hard-Pressed Skeptics say they voted
for Obama over Mitt Romney by more than
two-to-one (65% to 25%), but today just 44%
approve of the way Obama is handling his job
as president; 48% disapprove.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics are not in sync with
mainstream Democratic thinking in views of
Obamas major policy initiatives just 40%
approve of the Affordable Care Act. And they
take more conservative views on social issues,
such as homosexuality and abortion, than do
rank-and-file Democrats generally.
So why do Hard-Pressed Skeptics remain in the
Democrats camp, however marginally? In part,
it may be because of their strong support for increased government social spending. Even though
they take a dim view of government performance, 66% of Hard-Pressed Skeptics say the
government should do more for the needy even if it means adding to the debt. That is little
different from the 61% of all Democrats who favor more aid for the needy.
And while Hard-Pressed Skeptics are not enthusiastic about the Democratic Party, in some ways
they are even more critical of the GOP. For instance, about half of Hard-Pressed Skeptics (53%)
believe that the Democratic Party cares about the middle class. But just 26% say the same about
the Republican Party.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics Critical of
Government, But Favor More Spending
Key demographics
Total
public
Dem/Dem
leaners
Hard-Pressed
Skeptics
% % %
College grad+ 27 30 9
Family income less than
$30,000 34 38 56

Political views
Obama job approval 44 73 44
Fav view of Rep Party 37 16 32
Fav view of Dem Party 46 79 46

wasteful and inefficient 56 40 72
Govt should do more for
needy even if it means
going deeper into debt 43 61 66

Approve of Affordable
Care Act 41 70 40
Homosexuality should
be accepted by society 62 74 49
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The Pew Research Center created its first political typology in 1987, when President Ronald
Reagan was reeling from the Iran-Contra affair and the front-runners for the upcoming
presidential election were Sen. Gary Hart for the Democrats and Vice President George H.W. Bush
for the GOP.
Much has changed in politics over the past 27 years, of course. But some of the same fissures we
identified in that first typology are still evident today. Today, Business Conservatives hold
much more liberal positions on homosexuality and morality than do the other largely Republican
group, Steadfast Conservatives. In 1987, Enterprise Republicans were much more
tolerant than Moral Republicans on many of the social policy issues of the time, such as
whether or not school boards should have the right to fire homosexual teachers.
On the left today, the majority-non-white Faith and Family Left is highly religious and has
much more conservative attitudes about the acceptability of homosexuality and abortion than do
the Next Generation Left or Solid Liberals. But this same fissure existed in the late 1980s
between what we then described as the Partisan Poor and Passive Poor and the more upscale
60s Democrats and Seculars.
Every Typology study between 1987 and 2014 has found a very downbeat, financially stressed
group who is skeptical of government, yet supports the programs that assist people facing
economic disadvantages. Over time, we have referred to them as the Disaffected, the
Embittered or today the Hard-Pressed Skeptics, and their political leanings have varied with
administrations, issues and economic conditions.
But not all has been constant in the political typology, reflecting changing generational,
demographic and political contexts. An anchor of the Democratic Party in 1987 was the New
Dealers, representing the generation raised during economic strife and World War II. With the
New Deal generation largely gone, the Democratic coalition now leans heavily on the Next
Generation Left, who are more socially liberal than their predecessors, but also somewhat more
economically conservative.
And the appearance of the Young Outsiders is a new group in the political landscape. Previous
typology studies have found right-leaning groups, such as the Pro Government Conservatives
in 2005, who proved critical to George W. Bushs reelection. Drawn to the GOP coalition by the
partys positions on security issues and morality, they otherwise supported a more expansive view
of government and social programs. The Young Outsiders today are very different, as they share
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the GOP bases deep skepticism of government programs, but favor a more limited foreign policy,
and hold decidedly liberal social views.
This is the second report of a multi-part series on political polarization based on a national survey
of 10,013 adults nationwide, conducted January 23-March 16, 2014 by the Pew Research Center
and funded in part through grants from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the John D.
and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation and supported by the generosity of Don C. and Jeane M.
Bertsch.
The first report, released June 12, focused on the nature, scope and trajectory of political
polarization in the American public, and how it interrelates with government, society and peoples
personal lives.
This report uses cluster analysis to sort people into cohesive groups, based on their responses to
23 questions covering an array of political attitudes and values. First developed in 1987, the Pew
Research Centers political typology has provided a portrait of the electorate at various points
across five presidencies; the last typology study was released in May 2011.
Over the course of 2014, the project will further explore the various factors that contribute to or
stem from political polarization. A September report will examine how political polarization is
linked to peoples information environments: Their news sources, social media habits and
interpersonal communication networks. Other reports will look at how political polarization
relates to where people live, their political environments, how they view themselves and others
around them, their socioeconomic circumstances, generational changes and broader sociological
and psychological personality traits.
The data in this report are based on three independent survey administrations with the same
randomly selected, nationally representative group of respondents. The first is the centers largest
survey on domestic politics to date: the 2014 Political Polarization and Typology Survey, a national
telephone survey of 10,013 adults, on landlines and cell phones, from January through March of
this year. The other two surveys involved impaneling subsets of these respondents into the newly
created American Trends Panel and following up with them via surveys conducted by Web, mail
and telephone. The surveys are described in detail in the About the Surveys section of the report.
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Section 1: The Political Typology, Identity and Attitudes
This political typology is the sixth such study, following on previous studies in 1987, 1994, 1999
2005 and 2011. The typologies developed by the Pew Research Center are designed to describe the
political landscape in some detail, going beyond self-identified partisanship or ideology. This
years typology segments people based on their combination of 23 political values and beliefs. You
can find your own place in the political typology using our online interactive.
Our recent report on political polarization, which used the same survey analyzed in this report,
found a rise in the share of the public that is consistently liberal or consistently conservative.
These across-the-board liberals and conservatives are in full view in the typology, largely found in
three loyal partisan groups: Solid Liberals on the left and Business Conservatives and
Steadfast Conservatives on the right. The remaining four typology groups also each have a
partisan imprint, but people in these groups do not fit as neatly into ideological molds.
However, a significant limitation of the ideological scale used in the polarization report is that it
treats political ideology as a single left-right scale. This approach is valuable in terms of tracking
levels of ideological consistency over time, but it does a poor job of describing the political center
other than that they dont hold consistently liberal or consistently conservative views.
By taking into account a wider range of values, and looking for unique combinations of values, the
political typology finds that the political center is remarkably fragmented and diverse. In fact,
several of the groups that hold a mix of liberal and conservative views are nearly as politically
distant from one another as Solid Liberals are from Steadfast or Business Conservatives. For
instance, the Faith and Family Left hold liberal positions on the size of government and the
social safety net but diverge from other Democratic groups in their degree of social conservatism.
By contrast, Young Outsiders, a right leaning group, diverge from the conservative groups in
their social liberalism, while holding deeply conservative values about the role of government and
the social safety net. Both of these groups are ideologically mixed, but in different ways.
Similarly, though few among either Hard-Pressed Skeptics or the Next Generation Left are
ideologically consistent in their political values, and both groups have a Democratic cast, their
political values are more different than similar. Hard-Pressed Skeptics are generally
isolationist when it comes to foreign policy, and critical of government even as they support the
social safety net, while the Next Generation Left favors U.S. engagement with other nations and
is generally supportive of government, although lukewarm in its support for the social safety net.
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The typology divides the public into seven politically engaged groups, along with an eighth group
of politically disengaged Bystanders. These groups are defined by their social and political values
using 23 survey questions that address attitudes about government, business, privacy, foreign
policy, the social safety net, individualism, religion, homosexuality, the environment, immigration
and race. These measures are based on broadly oriented values designed to measure a persons
underlying belief about what is right and wrong, acceptable or unacceptable, or what the
government should or should not be involved in. The political typology is not based on opinions
about political leaders, parties or current issues, nor are demographic characteristics used in its
creation.
The current typology is a departure from past typologies, since it does not take partisan affiliation
or personal financial circumstances into account in creating the groups. Yet despite the absence of
these inputs into the typology, the groups sort fairly cleanly along party lines. The full set of
questionsalong with more details on how the groups are constructedcan be found here.
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Liberal Conservative
62% of Solid Liberals
are consistenly liberal in
their political values--
compared with just
12% of the public .
Half (51%) of the Faith and Family Left
hold an equal mix of liberal and
conservative values.

Most (58%) in the
are left-of-center, but
just 7% are consistently
liberal
Solid Liberals, as the name suggests, tend to hold liberal views
across all value dimensions. This group is overwhelmingly
Democratic: 89% call themselves Democrats or lean toward the
Democratic Party, 91% voted for Barack Obama in 2012, and
88% intend to vote Democratic in the 2014 midterms.
Though just 12% of Americans hold consistently liberal
positions, Solid Liberals make up the vast majority (82%) of that
group; 68% of Solid Liberals are consistently liberal, while an
additional 30% are mostly liberal in their political values.
While Democratic candidates can largely count on the support of
Solid Liberals, the Faith and Family Left and the Next
Generation Left are important, but less reliable, members of
the Democratic coalition. Each of these groups has a decidedly
Democratic orientation, but they diverge from across-the-board
liberal thinking in a number of critical ways that have
implications for their loyalty and enthusiasm.
The Faith and Family Left are far more religious and socially
conservative than other Democratically-oriented groups. But
that is coupled with a strong support for government and a
commitment to the social safety net. Overall, 51% of the Faith
and Family Left hold about an equal mix of liberal and
conservative values, while 38% are mostly liberal in their
ideological leanings; just 6% are consistently liberal.
The political values of the Next Generation Left are generally
liberal, but they diverge from Solid Liberals in expressing
somewhat less support for the social safety net and more positive
views of business. In addition, this groups individualistic streak
shows through in its views on race; unlike Solid Liberals, most in
the Next Generation Left think that society has made the
necessary changes to give blacks and whites equal rights. But in
other realms they are deeply liberal; they are supporters of
government, environmental protection and have positive views of immigrants. Still, their mix of
The Democratic-Leaning
Groups
Distribution on a 10-item scale of
political values
Solid Liberals



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Liberal Liberal Conservative
Seven-in-ten (69%)
Young Outsiders
are ideologically mixed.
Two-thirds (66%) of
take a roughly equal
number of conservative
and liberal positions.
political values means that in
contrast to Solid Liberals, even
as 59% are left-of-center (with
the remainder holding about an
equal number of liberal and
conservative positions), just 7%
have down-the-line liberal
political values.
Two groups: Young Outsiders and Hard-Pressed Skeptics are political wildcardsboth are
heavily cross-pressured in their core political values, though in distinctly different ways. As a
result, members of both groups dont find either the Democratic
or Republican Party a comfortable fit with their mix of beliefs.
Hard Pressed Skeptics have a Democratic leaning, but their ties
to the party are weak; while they voted for Obama over Romney
by a wide margin (65% to 25%), they favor Democratic
candidates over Republicans by just 14 points (51% to 37%) in
the upcoming congressional elections. And despite their 2012
support for Obama, as many now disapprove of his performance
as approve.
In contrast to other Democratic-leaning groups, Hard-Pressed
Skeptics are distrustful of government and express highly
negative attitudes towards immigrants. Yet they are nearly as
full-throated in their support for government programs to
alleviate poverty as Solid Liberals. This support for the social
safety net may reflect their own financial precariousnessHard-
Pressed Skeptics are the lowest-income group in the typology.
Not surprisingly given these competing values, about two-thirds
of Hard-Pressed Skeptics (66%) take a nearly even number of
liberal and conservative positions across a range of political
values; the remaining one-third are equally likely to be mostly
conservative (16%) or mostly liberal (17%) in their overall
orientation.
The Political Wildcards
political values

Young Outsiders

PEW RESEARCH CENTER
How we Define Ideological Consistency
We utilize a scale composed of 10 questions to gauge peoples ideological
worldview. The questions cover a range of political values including attitudes
about size and scope of government, the social safety net, immigration,
homosexuality, business, the environment, foreign policy and racial
discrimination. The scale is designed to measure how consistently liberal or
conservative peoples responses are across these various dimensions of political
thinking (what some refer to as ideological constraint. See appendix A of the
polarization report for more detail.
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About half (52%)( of
Steadfast Conservatives
are consistently conservative,
compared to just 9% of the
public
Eight-in-ten(79%)
Business Conservatives
are right-of-center.
The other wild card group, Young Outsiders, is similarly ideologically divided: Most (70%) hold an
equal number of liberal and conservative values. And, like Hard-Pressed Skeptics, they are
generally deeply distrustful of government. Yet despite sharing the ideological center with the
Hard-Pressed, these groups share little else in common.
These Young Outsiders currently gravitate toward the Republican Party based on their fiscal
conservatism and distrust of government. Yet, like the Next Generation Left, Young Outsiders tend
to be very liberal on social issues, very secular in their religious orientation and are generally open
to immigration.
Unlike on the left, where the Solid Liberals are a single,
ideologically consolidated bloc, consistently conservative
Americans split into two groups in the political typology:
Business Conservatives and Steadfast Conservatives.
Both groups are overwhelmingly Republican in their political
preferences, and are in complete agreement that government
should be smaller and play less of a role in the economy. And
both groups also express little support for the social safety net,
overwhelmingly oppose environmental regulations and take an
assertive foreign policy stance.
As a result, nearly all (97%) Americans with consistently
conservative values are in one of these groups. Yet there is not
wholesale agreement on the political right. Steadfast
Conservatives hold very conservative social values and express
very negative attitudes about immigrants. Business
Conservatives generally view immigrants positively and are
moderateor even liberalin their attitudes about
homosexuality. And while Steadfast Conservatives oppose the
government taking an active role in economic regulation, they
are also fairly skeptical about the fairness of the free market and
the influence large businesses have. By contrast, Business
Conservatives hold more conservative views in these realms.
A Divided Right
political values


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More than eight-in-ten Steadfast Conservatives (84%) and Business Conservatives (86%) identify
with or lean to the Republican Party, and 89% of Solid Liberals identify with or lean to the
Democratic Party. In their voting behavior, as well as their opinions about the two parties and
their leaders, those in these groups are politically locked-in.
Other groups are less uniformly Republican or Democratic. While the Faith and Family Left and
Next Generation Left are predominantly Democratic, about a quarter of those in each of these
groups identify with or lean toward the GOP. Hard-Pressed Skeptics also tilt Democratic, yet 32%
are Republican or lean Republican. Young Outsiders are also divided, though with a preference for
the GOP: 49% identify with or lean to the Republican Party, while 35% are, or lean, Democratic.
Notably, substantial shares of all seven groups including the three groups that are near uniform
in their political preferences choose not to identify with a political party. The two youngest
groups, the Next Generation Left and Young Outsiders, are the most likely to embrace the
independent label. About half of those in both groups call themselves political independents. But
more than four-in-ten Business Conservatives (44%) and a third of Steadfast Conservatives (33%),
also call themselves political independents, with most of those saying they lean to the Republican
Party. And about a third (34%) of Solid Liberals say they are independent, with most of those
leaning to the Democratic Party.
Party Identification Across the Typology Groups

Rep/
Lean Rep
Dem/
Lean Dem
No
Leaning
Repub-
lican
Demo-
crat
Indepen-
dent
Lean
Rep
Lean
Dem
% % % % % % % %
Total
39 48 13=100 22 31 41 17 17

84 7 9=100 56 5 33 28 2
86 6 8=100 49 4 44 37 2
Young Outsiders
49 35 16=100 23 21 51 26 15
32 53 15=100 17 37 41 15 16
25 65 10=100 12 35 49 13 29
26 61 13=100 18 46 30 8 15
Solid Liberals
5 89 5=100 3 61 34 2 28
2014 Political Typology. Figures may not add to 100% because of rounding.
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
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6
27
27
37
53
88
88
44
88
63
61
51
33
6
6
46
Rep candidate Dem candidate
2012
Margin
D+11
D+54
D+44
D+40
R+11
R+75
R+82
D+88
2014
Margin
D+2
D+36
D+34
D+14
R+20
R+82
R+82
D+82 3
21
26
25
50
84
87
41
91
75
70
65
39
9
5
52
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Obama Romney
Both the groups current preferences for the 2014 congressional election and their presidential
votes in 2012 closely mirror their partisan makeup. In their preferences for 2014, the vast majority
of Solid Liberals (88%) and clear majorities of the Next Generation Left (61%) and the Faith and
Family Left (63%) support Democratic candidates.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics also favor Democrats, though by a considerably narrower margin (51%
support Democrats, 37% Republicans). On the other side of the aisle, overwhelming majorities of
Steadfast Conservatives (88%) and Business Conservatives (88%) favor Republican candidates,
while the GOP also enjoys a 20-point advantage among Young Outsiders.
In large part, preferences in this years election are similar to vote patterns in the 2012 presidential
vote. But the Democratic shares of the votes among several groupsparticularly Hard-Pressed
Skeptics and the Faith and Family Lefthave declined. In 2012, Obama won Hard-Pressed
Skeptics by a 40-point margin; Democratic congressional candidates now lead Republican
candidates among this group by a much slimmer 14-point margin. And although the Faith and
Voting Preferences of the Typology Groups
% who voted/intend to vote for
2012 Presidential Vote 2014 Congressional Preference

2014 Political Typology. PVOTE, QB27, QB27a. Based on registered voters. 2012 vote based on those who recalled their vote. Other
candidates not shown.
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35
33
18
24
11
2
18
49
19
36
19
18
1
1
21
10
20
31
35
38
13
19
23
3
12
11
10
22
59
50
23
2
10
1
6
6
24
22
10
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Always Dem Usually Dem Both parties about equally Usually Rep Always Rep
Family Left remains more than twice as likely to vote Democratic this fall, the 54-point margin
Obama enjoyed among this group has narrowed to 36 points.
Looking at voting behavior more broadly, Young Outsiders are particularly divided in their
political leanings: 29% say they always or usually vote Democratic, 28% say they always or usually
vote Republican, and 38% say they vote about equally for both parties. About a third (35%) of
Hard-Pressed Skeptics also split their votes about equally between the two parties, though among
the remaining two-thirds, far more say they vote Democratic than Republican (42% vs. 16%).
The political loyalty of other left groups is also not universal. Although most of those in the Next
Generation Left (54%) say they always or usually vote Democratic, about three-in-ten (31%) say
they vote about equally for candidates from both parties, and 12% vote mostly for Republicans.
Similarly, 52% of the Faith and Family Left say they always or usually vote Democratic, with
another 20% splitting their votes about evenly and a sizeable minority (22%) always or usually
voting Republican.
Ticket Splitting Common among Groups in the Middle of the Typology
In national and statewide elections in recent years, % who say they have voted

2014 Political Typology. QC142. Based on registered voters. Dont know/Never voted/Vote for other parties not shown.
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78
25
44
20
18
11
6
28
2
8
6
10
15
55
53
18
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total

Disagree

Agree
No opinion/
Not heard of
54
67
49
70
67
34
41
20
Support for the Tea Party is
concentrated about evenly
within the two conservative
typology groups: 53% of
Steadfast Conservatives and
55% of Business Conservatives
say they agree with the Tea
Party (few disagree, as most
others in these groups have no
opinion of the movement).
Young Outsiders the other
Republican leaning group
have little affinity for the Tea
Party. Two-thirds (67%) have
no opinion of the Tea Party,
and of those who do, slightly
more disagree (18%) than
agree (15%) with the
movement.
Groups with a Democratic
leaning express more disagreement than agreement, although to varying degrees. More than
three-quarters of Solid Liberals (78%) say they disagree with the Tea Party. And while 49% of the
Next Generation Left have no opinion of the Tea Party, nearly as many (44%) say they disagree
with it. Few of the Faith and Family Left or Hard-Pressed Skeptics have an opinion about the
movement, though the balance of opinion among those in these groups who do rate the Tea Party
is also negative.
Tea Party Draws Little Support Aside From Steadfast
Conservatives, Business Conservatives
Do you agree or disagree with the Tea Party movement, or dont you have an
opinion either way?

2014 Political Typology. TEAPARTY2.
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84
50
71
49
57
52
33
56
11
45
26
47
38
43
62
39
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Stick to their
positions
Make
compromises
Overall, more Americans say they prefer elected
officials who make compromises with people
they disagree with than those who stick to their
positions (56% vs. 39%). Support for officials
who compromise is strongest among Solid
Liberals (84%) and the Next Generation Left
(71%), while smaller majorities of Young
Outsiders (57%) and Business Conservatives
(52%) also prefer politicians who make
compromises.
Both the Faith and Family Left and Hard-
Pressed Skeptics are more divided on the
question. And reflecting their name, Steadfast
Conservatives stand out as the only group in
which a majority (62%) prefers elected officials
who remain steadfast, sticking to their positions
rather than compromising.

Business Conservatives Far More Likely
Than Steadfast to Favor Compromise
% saying they like elected officials who

2014 Political Typology. Q51mm.
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8
36
30
32
39
68
65
37
89
55
63
61
53
30
31
55
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
NET
Unfavorable
NET
Favorable
83
63
62
46
34
7
7
46
15
28
31
47
59
91
90
47
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
NET
Unfavorable
NET
Favorable
To a large extent, views of the two parties mirror the underlying partisan composition of the
typology groups. But in some cases, ratings of the two parties reveal a more generalized frustration
with politics.
More than eight-in-ten Solid Liberals (83%) have a favorable opinion of the Democratic Party, and
89% view the GOP negatively. About six-in-ten of the Next Generation Left (62%) and the Faith
and Family Left (63%) view the Democratic Party positively, with majorities in both of these
groups holding an unfavorable view of the Republican Party.
Though a Democratic-leaning group, Hard-Pressed Skeptics are split in their views of the
Democratic Party (46% favorable, 47% unfavorable) and have a largely unfavorable view of the
GOP (32% favorable, 61% unfavorable). And although they tilt Republican in their preferences,
Young Outsiders are the only group with a majority negative view of both the Democratic (59%
unfavorable) and Republican (53% unfavorable) parties.
About nine-in-ten Steadfast Conservatives (90%) and Business Conservatives (91%) have an
unfavorable opinion of the Democratic Party. Yet despite their strong Republican loyalty, their
Young Outsiders View Both Parties Unfavorably
View of the Democratic Party View of the Republican Party

2014 Political Typology. Q11a-b.
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21
35
49
26
40
79
64
42
Republican Party
86
66
85
53
50
36
21
57
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Democratic Party
view of the GOP is muted; about two-thirds in both groups express a favorable view of the
Republican Party.
Among the public overall, 57% say the Democratic Party cares about the middle class, while only
42% say the same about the
GOP. The Democrats
advantage on this trait is
evident across five of the seven
typology groups. Only Steadfast
and Business Conservatives
give the Republican Party better
marks on this measure.
Although both Young Outsiders
and Hard-Pressed Skeptics are
more likely to say Democrats
care about the middle class
than to say this about
Republicans, neither party
performs particularly well on
this measure among these
groups. Half (50%) of Young
Outsiders say the Democratic
Party cares about the middle
class, while 40% say the
Republican Party does. Similarly, about half (53%) of Hard-Pressed Skeptics say the Democratic
Party cares about the middle class, though here the GOP lags far behind, as only 26% say the same
about the Republican Party.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics, Young Outsiders Not Impressed
with Either Partys Efforts on Behalf of Middle Class
% saying each party cares about the middle class

2014 Political Typology. QC48b, QC49b.
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38
44
49
52
68
95
88
59
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
91
63
69
69
50
18
26
57
To test views of the parties
further, the survey offered two
criticisms of the Democratic
and Republican parties, which
majorities agreed with. About
six-in-ten Americans (59%) say
the Democratic Party too often
sees government as the only
way to solve problems.
Roughly the same share (57%)
say the Republican Party is too
willing to cut government
programs, even when they
work.
These criticisms of both parties
are common in the middle
Typology groups. About two-
thirds of Young Outsiders
(68%) say the Democratic Party
is too reliant on government to
solve problems, but half (50%) also say that the GOP is too quick to cut working programs.
Similarly, while about seven-in-ten (69%) Hard-Pressed Skeptics and those in the Next Generation
Left say the Republican Party is too willing to cut programs, about half of those in each of these
groups say Democrats too often see government as the solution.
Not surprisingly, the critiques of the other side resonate with the overwhelming majority of
Steadfast Conservatives, Business Conservatives and Solid Liberals. But about four-in-ten (38%)
Solid Liberals also say the Democratic Party too often relies on government solutions, while a
quarter of Steadfast Conservatives (26%) say the GOP is too quick to cut effective government
programs.
Many Say Democrats too Reliant on Government
Solutions, Republicans too Quick to Cut Programs
% who say

The Democratic Party
too often sees
government as only way
to solve problems
The Republican Party
is too willing to cut
gov't programs, even
when they work

2014 Political Typology. QC48c, QC49c.
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Very strongly
Not strongly
Very strongly
Not strongly
10
29
26
48
60
96
94
49
84
61
66
44
31
2
5
44
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Not surprisingly, views of Barack Obama are
highly polarized. Solid Liberals are his
strongest supporters; 84% approve of how
Obama is handling his job. Obama also fares
well among the Faith and Family Left (61%
approve) and the Next Generation Left (66%
approve). But nearly all Steadfast (94%) and
Business (96%) Conservatives disapprove of
Obamas performanceand most of those say
they very strongly disapprove. By about two-
to-one (60% vs. 31%) Young Outsiders also
express more disapproval than approval.
Though Obama won Hard-Pressed Skeptics in
2012, they are currently divided in their
evaluations of his job performance: 48%
disapprove, 44% approve.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics Divided in Views
of Obamas Performance
Disapprove Approve

2014 Political Typology.QC1.
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23
26
38
39
57
88
85
47
65
41
38
26
19
3
2
29
9
16
13
20
22
47
43
22
61
22
27
15
12
9
6
22
10
24
26
32
46
86
85
41
88
70
70
62
51
12
11
54
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Hillary Clinton is viewed positively by all four groups with a Democratic tilt. Nearly nine-in-ten
Solid Liberals (88%), seven-in-ten in the Faith and Family Left (70%) and Next Generation Left
(70%) view her favorably. And while Hard-Pressed Skeptics are split in their views of Obamas job
performance, they hold a favorable impression of Hillary Clinton by roughly two-to-one (62% vs.
32%).
While Young Outsiders are divided in their views of Clinton, (51% favorable, 46% unfavorable),
more than eight-in-ten Steadfast (85%) and Business (86%) Conservatives view her unfavorably.
And most of those opinions are very unfavorable.
Nancy Pelosi elicits a similarly strongly negative reaction from the two conservative groups: 85%
of Steadfast Conservatives and 88% of Business Conservatives have an unfavorable opinion of the
House Minority leaderand nearly all of those opinions are very unfavorable. By two-to-one,
Young Outsiders also view Pelosi more negatively than positively (57% unfavorable, 19%
favorable).
Clinton Viewed Favorably by Many in the Middle; Pelosi and Warren Are Not
% who say their view is

Hillary Clinton Nancy Pelosi Elizabeth Warren

2014 Political Typology. ATP(W3): FAVPOL. Those who did not rate not shown.
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
6
Very unfavorable Mostly unfavorable Mostly favorable Very favorable
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Opinions about Pelosi are largely positive among both Solid Liberals (65% favorable, 23%
unfavorable), and the Faith and Family Left (41% favorable, 26% unfavorable), but the former
Speaker splits the Next Generation Left (38% favorable, 38% unfavorable), and is in negative
territory among Hard-Pressed Skeptics (26% favorable, 39% favorable).
Elizabeth Warren is lesser known among all typology groups, but is broadly liked by Solid Liberals:
61% view her favorably, including 40% saying their opinion is very favorable. In contrast, Steadfast
and Business Conservatives give the Massachusetts senator negative marks (while only around
half of those in these groups rate her, those ratings are mostly negative). Other groups are both
less likely to rate Warren overall, and those who do are more mixed in their views of her, although
those in the Next Generation Left view Warren more positively than negatively by about two-to-
one.
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71
28
44
21
25
15
11
32
2
19
8
15
19
62
61
23
73
33
41
32
40
33
37
41
17
32
30
29
33
56
44
32
79
37
44
32
32
8
13
36
6
25
20
24
34
79
66
32
72
34
45
26
34
12
15
34
6
22
16
24
29
69
64
29
68
23
35
18
20
9
15
28
7
23
18
15
24
70
58
27
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
70
42
50
42
39
24
27
42
15
28
23
23
30
63
60
31
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
6
Very unfavorable Mostly unfavorable Mostly favorable Very favorable
There is little difference in how many leading Republicans are viewed by the two core GOP groups:
Steadfast Conservatives and Business Conservatives. Large majorities in both of these groups have
favorable views of Jeb Bush, Rand Paul, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio and Paul Ryan. Though both
groups also view Chris Christie more positively than negatively, a third (33%) of Business
Leading GOP Figures Viewed Favorably by Conservative Typology Groups; No One Stands Out
% who say their view is
Jeb Bush Chris Christie Paul Ryan

Marco Rubio Rand Paul Ted Cruz

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Conservatives and 37% of Steadfast Conservatives have an unfavorable view of the New Jersey
Governor. But none of these figures find much support from Young Outsiders, many of whom
dont even rate these Republican leaders. Among those who do provide ratings, opinions are
divided. And Hard-Pressed Skeptics are also divided over most of these figures.
All six of these men elicit unfavorable views from more than two-thirds of Solid Liberals, with
many saying their views are very unfavorable. But Ted Cruz stands out as a particular lightning rod
for Solid Liberals: 71% view him unfavorably, including 62% who say their view is very
unfavorable.
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22
40
30
61
60
59
76
49
70
50
65
34
33
33
20
44
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Behind us Ahead of us
Section 2: Views of the Nation, the Constitution and
Government
The typology groups differ markedly in their attitudes about Americas future, its standing in the
world and the factors behind the nations
success.
The public generally is divided about the
nations future: 49% think the countrys best
years are behind us, while 44% say the best
years lie ahead.
Pessimism about the countrys future is most
prevalent among Steadfast Conservatives
fully 76% believe that the countrys best years
are behind us, as do 59% of Business
Conservatives. However, a negative outlook
extends to the middle of the typology 61% of
Hard-Pressed Skeptics and 60% of Young
Outsiders say the U.S. has already seen its best
years.
By contrast, Solid Liberals and the Next
Generation Left say the best is yet to come for
the United States. Wide majorities of both
groups (70% and 65%, respectively) say the
countrys best years lie ahead. By a narrow margin, the Faith and Family Left also are more likely
to say the best years are ahead (50%) than in the past (40%).
Optimism about Nations Future Highest
among Solid Liberals, Next Gen Left
% who say the United States best years are

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While there are divides in
views over whether the
countrys best years are in the
past or future, large
majorities of all groups see
the U.S. as either one of the
greatest countries in the
world or the greatest country
in the world.
Overall, 58% say the U.S. is
one of the greatest countries
in the world, along with some
others; 28% say the U.S.
stands above all other
countries. Just 12% say there
are other countries that are
better than the U.S.
Belief that the U.S. stands
alone in the world is most
prevalent among Steadfast
Conservatives, Business
Conservatives and the Faith and Family Left. Though they see the countrys best years in the past,
Steadfast Conservatives are as likely to say the U.S. stands above all other countries (46%) as say
the U.S. is one of the greatest countries in the world, along with some others (46%).
Many Business Conservatives also say the U.S. stands alone as the best country (43%), though
more (55%) say it is one of the greatest countries in the world, along with some others. Among the
Democratically-oriented groups, the Faith and Family Left are the most likely to say the U.S.
stands above all other countries: 39% say this, though a greater share (51%) says the U.S. is among
the greatest countries.
Across all other groups, far more say the U.S. is one of several of the greatest countries in the
world, rather than the one country standing above all others. For example, 67% of the Next
Generation Left see the U.S. as one of the greatest countries, while 20% say it stands above all
others.
Most Say U.S. Is Among the Greatest Countries,
But Does Not Stand Above All Others
% who say

2014 Political Typology. QC56.
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11
39
20
29
16
43
46
28
71
51
67
54
64
55
46
58
16
8
12
15
19
1
7
12
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
The U.S. stands above all other countries
The U.S. is one of the greatest countries, along with some others
There are other countries that are better than the U.S.
35

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17
39
33
44
45
71
78
44
79
54
63
50
49
25
17
51
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Reliance on
principles
Ability to
change

There are greater divisions of opinion when it
comes to the question of what explains the
past success of the United States, with
differences within and across partisan
groupings.
Overall, 51% say the country has been
successful more because of its ability to
change, while 44% say it is more because of its
reliance on long-standing principles.
Both Steadfast and Business Conservatives see
reliance on long-standing principles as the
main reason the United States has been
successful. Large percentages of both groups
(78% and 71%, respectively) take this view.
However, the Young Outsiders are more
divided: About as many say the country has
been successful because of its ability to change
(49%) as because of its reliance on principles
(45%). Opinions are similar among the Hard-
Pressed Skeptics (50% ability to change vs. 44% reliance on principles).
Solid Liberals overwhelmingly say the country has been successful because of its ability to change
(79%-17%). The Next Generation Left also holds this view by a wide 63%-33% margin. Roughly
half of the socially conservative Faith and Family Left (54%) credit the nations ability to change,
while 39% attribute the nations success to its reliance on long-standing principles.

Bigger Reason for U.S. Success: Ability
to Change or Reliance on Principles?
% who say the country been successful more because of

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14
39
27
52
47
74
88
46
84
53
68
43
48
24
11
49
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Meant as
originally written
Means in
current times
The theme of change versus tradition surfaces
in views of a very different question whether
the Supreme Court should base its rulings on
an understanding of what the Constitution
meant as it was originally written or on what
the Constitution means today.
The two most conservative groups stand out
for their strong belief that the court should
base its rulings on an understanding of the
Constitution as originally written. Fully 88% of
Steadfast Conservatives support
constitutional originalism, as do 74% of
Business Conservatives by far the highest
percentages of any of the typology groups.
Solid Liberals take the opposite view. More
than eight-in-ten (84%) say the Supreme
Court should base its understanding of the
Constitution on what it means today, not on
what it meant when it was originally written.
And about two-thirds (68%) of the Next
Generation Left also say the courts rulings should be based on what the Constitution means today.
On this question, both Hard-Pressed Skeptics and Young Outsiders are divided.

Wide Left-Right Divide Over How
Constitution Should be Interpreted
% who say the Supreme Court should base its rulings on
what the U.S. Constitution

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67
60
59
84
84
84
93
75
32
39
40
15
16
16
7
24
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Only some
of the time/
Never
Always/
Most of
the time
11
9
5
24
22
32
43
19
70
59
64
64
66
58
55
62
17
28
29
10
12
8
2
17
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Angry Frustrated Content
Pew Research surveys have documented the historic decline in trust in government over recent
years, and the Typology survey finds that trust in government remains mired near record lows.
Just 24% say they can trust the government in Washington to do what is right just about always or
most of the time; far more (75%) say they trust government only some of the time or never.
Majorities of all typology groups express low levels of trust in government. Distrust is especially
acute among the Republican-oriented groups. For example, 93% of Steadfast Conservatives trust
the government only some of the time or never. The Next Generation Left are among the least
negative groups, yet more still say they trust the government only sometimes or never (59%) than
most of the time or always (40%).
Alongside low levels of trust, most Americans (62%) say they feel frustrated with the federal
government, while another 19% say they are angry; just 17% say they feel basically content with the
government.
While all groups are frustrated with government, Steadfast Conservatives are the most likely to say
Views of Government: Low Levels of Trust, High Frustration
Trust the government in Washington Feeling about the federal government

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19
20
28
24
43
65
58
34
77
75
68
72
57
30
37
62
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Not govt's job to
protect people
from themselves
Necessary to
have laws to
protect people
they are angry: 43% say they feel this way toward government. By contrast, just 11% of Solid
Liberals, 9% of the Faith and Family Left and 5% of the Next Generation Left are angry with
government.
Many Business Conservatives (32%) say they are angry with the federal government, though far
more describe themselves as frustrated (58%).
Similar percentages of Hard-Pressed Skeptics (24%) and Young Outsiders (22%) say they are
angry with government. For both groups, this places them somewhat out of step with the groups at
the poles of their partisan leanings: Young Outsiders are about half as likely to be angry with
government as Steadfast Conservatives; Hard-Pressed Skeptics are about twice as likely to express
anger with the federal government as Solid Liberals.
Most Americans say that sometimes laws are
necessary to protect people from themselves
(62%), while 34% say that its not the
governments job to protect people from
themselves. Most typology groups say it is
sometimes necessary to have laws to protect
people from themselves, including 57% of
Young Outsiders a group that generally
holds limited views on what the government
can and should be doing.
Business Conservatives (65%-30%) and
Steadfast Conservatives (58%-37%) are the
only two groups where majorities say its not
the governments job to protect people from
themselves.
Conservatives Say Its Not Govts Job to
Protect People From Themselves
%who say

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Yet the public has divided opinions about the
governments regulation of business, and large
majorities of the typologys middle groups
Hard-Pressed Skeptics (66%) and Young
Outsiders (61%) say regulation does more
harm than good.
Anti-regulation views are a defining feature of
the two most Republican typology groups.
Fully 85% of Steadfast Conservative and 81%
of Business Conservatives say that government
regulation of business does more harm than
good.
By contrast, there is strong support for
government regulation of business among
Solid Liberals (87% say regulation is necessary
to protect the public interest), the Next
Generation Left (75%) and the Faith and
Family Left (67%).

Public Evenly Divided in Views of
Government Regulation of Business
% who say government regulation of business

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9
26
19
66
61
81
85
47
87
67
75
28
34
14
11
47
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Does more harm
than good
Necessary to
protect public
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88
51
60
74
69
31
48
62
9
43
36
21
29
67
47
34
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Economic
system unfairly
favors powerful
Economic
system is fair to
most people
95
76
82
85
88
35
71
78
4
19
15
12
9
57
22
18
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Too much power
is concentrated
in hands of few
large companies
Largest
companies do
not have too
much power
Section 3: Fairness of the Economic System, Views of the
Poor and the Social Safety Net
There is public agreement that the U.S. economic system unfairly favors powerful interests, and
even more Americans believe that large corporations in this country are too powerful. But on both
issues, Business Conservatives offer strongly dissenting views; they are the only typology group in
which a majority sees the economic system as fundamentally fair.
Overall, the public has long been split over government assistance to the poor and needy. Yet while
attitudes about the social safety net generally divide the right from the left, the Next Generation
Left stand out among Democratically-oriented groups for their opposition to increased assistance
to the needy if it means adding to the nations debt.
Overall, 62% of Americans say this countrys economic system unfairly favors powerful interests,
compared with just 34% who think the system is generally fair to most Americans. There is
variance in opinions about economic fairness among Democratically-oriented groups. For
Business Conservatives Stand Out for Belief in Fairness of Economic System
% who say

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56
37
33
54
48
17
41
42
36
47
56
31
42
74
49
45
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Wall St. hurts
econ more than
it helps
Wall St. helps
econ more
than it hurts
instance, while 88% of Solid Liberals say the economic system is unfair, only about half (51%) of
the Faith and Family Left agree.
Yet Business Conservatives are the only group on the right or left in which most believe the
economic system is fair to most people. Fully 67% say the economic system is fair to most
Americans, and 47% of Steadfast Conservatives agree. Among the GOP-leaning Young Outsiders,
just 29% think the system is fair while more than twice as many (69%) do not.
As their name implies, Business Conservatives also have much more positive views of major
corporations than do other Americans. Fully 57% think that the largest companies do not have too
much power; no more than one-in-four in other typology groups share this view. Even among
Steadfast Conservatives, 71% say large corporations are too powerful.
However, there is greater agreement among the two conservative groups about whether corporate
profits are appropriate: Majorities of both Business Conservatives (86%) and Steadfast
Conservatives (62%) say most corporations make a fair and reasonable amount of profit. This
view is shared far less widely among other typology groups: Majorities of Solid Liberals (80%),
Hard-Pressed Skeptics (79%), and Young Outsiders (66%) say corporations make too much
profit. But the Faith and Family Left and Next Generation Left are more divided; a narrow
majority of the Faith and Family Left (54%)
and half of the Next Generation Left (50%) say
corporate profits are excessive.
Not only do Business Conservatives have the
most positive views of corporations, they also
are more likely than other typology groups to
say that Wall Street helps more than hurts the
U.S. economy. But in this case, they are joined
by a 56% majority of the Next Generation Left.
Overall, 45% say Wall Street helps the U.S.
economy more than it hurts, while about as
many (42%) say it hurts the economy more
than it helps. Views of Wall Street have
improved since 2012, when more saw it as
having a net negative than net positive impact
(48%-36%).
Mixed Views of Wall Street
%who say

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7
33
26
33
86
80
86
48
91
59
68
60
9
13
10
47
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Govt aid to poor
does more harm
than good
Govt aid to poor
does more good
than harm
12
35
56
27
76
89
85
51
83
58
39
66
18
6
11
43
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Govt can't afford
to do more to
help needy
Govt should do
more to help
needy
Majorities of Business Conservatives (74%) and the Next Generation Left (56%) think that Wall
Street does more to help the economy. The most negative views of Wall Streets effect on the
economy come from Solid Liberals (56% hurt more than help) and Hard-Pressed Skeptics (54%).
The three other groups have more divided views of Wall Streets impact.
Views of government aid to the poor are much more polarized along partisan lines than attitudes
about the fairness of the economic system. Groups on the right overwhelmingly believe
government aid to the poor does more harm than good, while those on the left say it has a positive
impact.
Fully 86% of Steadfast Conservatives and Young Outsiders, along with 80% of Business
Conservatives, say government aid to the poor does more harm than good by making people too
dependent on government assistance. Majorities in the three Democratically-oriented groups, as
well as the Democratic-leaning Hard-Pressed Skeptics, express the opposite viewthat
government aid to the poor does more good than harm because people cant get out of poverty
Next Generation Left See Government Aid to Poor as Doing More Good Than Harm,
But Worry About Impact on Nations Debt
% who say

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86
62
54
71
10
9
7
47
6
29
32
21
81
77
86
44
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Poor have
hard lives
Poor have
it easy
9
32
42
22
56
58
61
39
83
58
47
66
30
26
29
50
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Lack of effort
on his or her
part
Circumstances
beyond his or
her control
until their basic needs are met.
However, while most of the Next Generation Left (68%) support government aid to the poor in
principle, they balk at the costs to the federal government. Overall, 56% say that the government
cant afford to do much more to help the needy, while fewer (39%) say the government should do
more to help the needy even if it means going deeper into debt.
By contrast, majorities of Solid Liberals (83%), Hard-Pressed Skeptics (66%) and the Faith and
Family Left (58%) all say the government should do more to help needy Americans even if it
results in more debt.
The public is split in their views of whether government aid to the poor is justified: While 44% say
the poor have it easy because they can get government benefits without doing anything in return,
about as many (47%) believe poor people have hard lives because government benefits dont go
Wide Differences Between Right and Left Over Why Some People are Poor
% who say

Poor people have hard lives because government
benefits dont go far enough to help them live
decently, or poor people have it easy because they
can get government benefits without doing
anything?
Which is generally more often to blame if a person is
poor?

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far enough to help them live decently.
Wide majorities of Steadfast Conservatives (86%) and Business Conservatives (77%) say poor
people have it easy; they are joined in this view by 81% of the Republican-leaning Young
Outsiders. By contrast, 86% of Solid Liberals think the poor have hard lives and that benefits dont
go far enough to help them live decently; 71% of Hard-Pressed Skeptics agree. Smaller majorities
of the Faith and Family Left (62%) and the Next Generation Left (54%) also say this.
There is a similar pattern in opinions about why a person is poor: Overall, 50% say it is more often
because of circumstances beyond an individuals control; 39% think a lack of effort is more to
blame. Majorities of Steadfast Conservatives (61%), Business Conservatives (58%) and Young
Outsiders (56%) say a lack of effort is more often to blame for why a person is poor.
Among Democratically-oriented groups, 86% of Solid Liberals and 62% of the Faith and Family
Left say that the poor have hard lives because government benefits dont go far enough to help
them live decently; 71% of Hard-Pressed Skeptics also express this view. But the Next Generation
Left are more conflicted in their views: About as many say a lack of effort is usually to blame for
why a person is poor (42%) as say poverty is the result of circumstances outside of ones control
(47%).
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67
16
21
65
22
10
17
32
29
82
77
32
76
88
81
65
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Hard work is no
guarantee of
success for most
Most can get
ahead if willing
to work hard
Americans continue to offer broad support for
the idea that hard work leads to success in this
country. Nearly two-thirds of the public (65%)
say most people who want to get ahead can
make it if theyre willing to work hard, while
just 32% say hard work and determination are
no guarantee of success for most people.
However, majorities of two typology groups
Hard-Pressed Skeptics and Solid Liberals
reject the American ideal that hard work is all
it takes to succeed.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics face the most difficult
financial circumstances of all the typology
groups and 65% say hard work is no guarantee
of success, compared with just 32% who say
most people can get ahead if theyre willing to
work hard.
Solid Liberals are a relatively affluent group,
but by a 67%-29% margin, they also do not
believe that hard work can guarantee success for most people.
Across the five other typology groups, at least three-quarters say most people who want to get
ahead can make it if theyre willing to work hard. The Democratically-oriented Faith and Family
Left and Next Generation Left are about as likely to hold this view as the three Republican-
oriented groups.
Solid Liberals, Hard-Pressed Skeptics
Doubt that Hard Work Leads to Success
% who say

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3
22
11
79
43
21
73
35
93
70
83
14
48
64
17
57
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Burden our
country, taking
jobs, housing,
health care
Strengthen our
country through
hard work &
talents
5
25
9
72
39
20
81
35
92
66
88
23
55
72
13
59
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Threatens
traditional
American
customs/values
Strengthens
American
society
Section 4: Views on Immigration and Race
On both the left and the right, there are divides about how immigrants affect American society. On
balance, public views of immigrants are more positive than negative. By a margin of 57% to 35%,
more say immigrants today strengthen rather than burden the country; by a similar 59% to 35%
margin, most believe that the growing number of newcomers strengthens society rather than
threatens traditions.
On both questions, the three groups on the left are in general agreement that immigrants
strengthen the country. But Hard-Pressed Skeptics, a Democratic-leaning group, take more
conservative views on both measures. About eight-in-ten (79%) say immigrants are a burden
because they take jobs, housing and health care, while only 14% believe immigrants strengthen the
U.S. because of their hard work and talents. Most Hard-Pressed Skeptics (72%) also say
newcomers threaten traditional American customs and values.
Steadfast Conservatives, Hard-Pressed Skeptics View Immigrants Negatively
% who say

Immigrants today Growing number of newcomers from other countries...

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3
13
11
37
28
27
49
23
96
85
88
61
69
72
50
76
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Not be eligible
for citizenship
Be eligible if
requirements
met
The solidly Republican Steadfast Conservatives view immigrants as a burden (73%) and as a threat
to traditional values (81%). However, this contrasts with Business Conservatives, who mostly
believe that immigrants strengthen the country (64% vs. 21%) and American society (72% vs.
20%).
On immigration, Young Outsiders are the
most conflicted. About as many believe
immigrants strengthen (48%) as burden
(43%) the country. On the issue of traditional
customs and values, a slim majority says
newcomers strengthen society (55%), while
39% see them as a threat to traditional
values.
When it comes to immigration policy, six of
the seven groups favor a pathway to
citizenship for immigrants here illegally as
long as certain requirements are met.
By a roughly three-to-one margin (76%-
23%), the public thinks unauthorized
immigrants should be eligible for citizenship.
More than eight-in-ten Solid Liberals (96%),
Next Generation Left (88%) and Faith and
Family Left (85%) say immigrants living in
the country illegally should be eligible for
citizenship, if they meet certain requirements.
On the right, Business Conservatives (72%) and Young Outsiders (69%) also are supportive of a
pathway to citizenship. And Hard-Pressed Skeptics who hold negative views of immigrants
generally support a pathway to citizenship by a 61% to 37% margin.
Steadfast Conservatives are the only group where most do not back a way for immigrants currently
in the country to stay here legally. As many say immigrants now living in the U.S. should not be
eligible for citizenship (49%) as say they should be eligible for citizenship, as long as certain
requirements are met (50%).
Steadfast Conservatives Only Typology
Group to Not Back Path to Citizenship
% who say immigrants who are living in U.S. illegally
should

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91
72
28
56
26
12
15
46
6
23
67
39
70
83
81
49
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
U.S. needs to
continue making
changes to give
blacks equal
rights
U.S. has made
the changes
needed to give
blacks equal
rights
When it comes to racial progress in the U.S.,
the public is evenly divided about whether the
country has made the changes needed to give
blacks equal rights with whites. About half
(49%) say the U.S. has made the necessary
changes, while 46% believe the country needs
to continue making changes.
About eight-in-ten Business (83%) and
Steadfast Conservatives (81%) agree that the
U.S. has made the changes needed to give
blacks equal rights with whites. At the other
end of the ideological spectrum, 91% of Solid
Liberals and 72% of the Faith and Family Left
take the opposite view and say the U.S. needs
to continue making changes to give black
equal rights with whites.
Notably, a 67% majority of the Next
Generation Left the youngest Democratic-
leaning group says the necessary changes
to give blacks equal rights with whites have
been made, while just 28% say more needs to
be done.
While the public is divided over whether additional societal changes are needed to further racial
equality, most do not believe that discrimination is the main reason why many blacks cant get
ahead today.
By more than two-to-one (63%-27%), the public says blacks who cant get ahead are mostly
responsible for their own condition. This view is widely held across the three Republican-oriented
groups, with at least eight-in-ten taking this position.
Smaller majorities of the Democratic-leaning Next Generation Left (68%) and Hard-Pressed
Skeptics (63%) say that blacks who cant get ahead are mostly responsible for their own condition.
On Racial Progress, Next Gen Left Is Far
Apart from Other Democratic Groups
% who say

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80
31
19
28
9
7
5
27
10
57
68
63
84
82
89
63
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Racial
discrimination is
main reason why
many blacks
can't get ahead
Blacks who
can't get ahead
are mostly
responsible for
own condition
A 57% majority of the Faith and Family Left
(the most racially diverse group, 30% of
whom are black) also say that blacks who
cant get ahead are mostly responsible for
their own condition.
But Solid Liberals see the issue differently.
Among this group, eight-in-ten (80%) say
racial discrimination is the main reason why
many blacks cant get ahead, making them at
least 49 points more likely to hold this view
than any other group.

Solid Liberals Say Discrimination Main
Reason Many Blacks Cant Get Ahead
% who say

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10
16
24
21
33
60
60
30
87
74
71
70
62
30
31
63
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Bad thing Good thing
The Democratically-oriented groups are largely in agreement, however, when it comes to the
practice of affirmative action in college
admissions. Majorities say its a good thing to
have affirmative action programs designed to
increase number of black and minority
students on college campuses.
A vast majority of Solid Liberals believe in the
merits of college affirmative action (87%), as
do at least seven-in-ten of those in the three
Democratic-leaning groups. The Young
Outsiders also are mostly supportive of
campus affirmative action: 62% say its a good
thing and just 33% say its a bad thing.
Steadfast Conservatives and Business
Conservatives, meanwhile, think these
programs are a bad thing by a two-to-one
margin (60%-31% and 60%-30%,
respectively).

Broad Support for Affirmative Action
Programs
% who say affirmative action programs to increase
black and minority students on college campuses are a

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Section 5: Views on Religion, the Bible, Evolution and
Social Issues
There are deep divisions in the political
typology over religious beliefs, views of the
Bible and social issues such as homosexuality
and abortion. And while the right and left
differ over these issues, in many cases they
also divide both parties coalitions.
On fundamental views related to belief in God,
53% of the public says it is not necessary to
believe in God in order to be moral and have
good values, while 45% believes it is necessary.
While overall opinion is fairly evenly split,
opinion among the typology groups is not:
Large majorities of all groups are on one side
or the other of this question.
About nine-in-ten of the Next Generation Left
(91%) and Solid Liberals (89%) say that belief
in God is not necessary to be moral and have
good values. But among the Faith and Family
Left a group that shares much in common
politically with the other Democratically-
oriented groups 91% take the opposite view and say it is necessary to believe in God to be moral
and have good values. Most Hard-Pressed Skeptics (66%) also say belief in God is needed to be a
moral person.
There is a similar dynamic on the right. While nearly seven-in-ten Steadfast Conservatives (69%)
say it is necessary to believe in God to be a moral person, about equally large percentages of Young
Outsiders (70%) and Business Conservatives (66%) say this is not necessary.
Both Left and Right Are Divided over
Link between Belief in God and Morality
% who say it is

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89
7
91
31
70
66
29
53
11
91
7
66
28
31
69
45
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Not necessary to
believe in God
to be moral
Necessary to
believe in God
to be moral
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About two-thirds (65%) of
Americans say that the Bible
and other works of Scripture
are the word of God. Those
who say this are about equally
likely to say these religious
texts should be taken literally,
word for word (33%) as to say
that not everything in these
holy texts should be taken
literally (30%).
The view that the religious
texts are the word of God is
held by broad majorities of
(88%), the Faith and Family
Left (87%), Hard-Pressed
Skeptics (78%) and Business
Conservatives (74%).
Although many Business
Conservatives view the
Scripture as the word of God, just 23% say the text is meant to be taken literally, word for word. By
contrast, 57% of Steadfast Conservatives and 54% of the Faith and Family Left, along with 47% of
Hard-Pressed Skeptics, say the texts should be taken literally.
About half of the Next Generation Left (49%) and 55% of Young Outsiders say Scriptures are the
word of God. And within these groups few say the Scripture is meant to be taken literallyjust 21%
of Young Outsiders and 13% of the Next Generation Left say this.
Just 30% of Solid Liberals say the Bible or other holy texts are the word of God; fully 63% of Solid
Liberals say that the Bible or other holy book is a book written by men and is not the word of
God.
Majorities of Steadfast Conservatives and Faith and
Family Left Say Bible Should Be Taken Literally
Bible/Holy Scripture is
------------------The word of God------------------
A book written by
men and is NOT
the word of God
NET
Should be taken
literally, word for
word
Should not
be taken
literally
% % % %
Total 65 33 30 30

Steadfast Conservs 88 57 26 8
Business Conservs 74 23 46 21
Young Outsiders 55 21 33 40
Hard-Pressed Skeptics 78 47 28 18
Next Generation Left 49 13 35 44
Faith and Family Left 87 54 30 10
Solid Liberals 30 10 20 63
2014 Political Typology. QB139/QB139a.
Notes: Dont know responses not shown. The wording of these questions varies depending
on the religious affiliation of the respondent. Christians and the unaffiliated are asked about
the Bible; Jews are asked about the Torah; Muslims are asked about the Koran; and
Buddhists, Hindus and those of other faiths are asked about the Holy Scripture. Subgroups
may not add to NETs because of rounding and omission of dont know responses.
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About six-in-ten Americans (61%) say humans and other living things have evolved over time,
while 34% say humans and
others have existed in their
present form since the
beginning of time. These views
have changed little in recent
years. (For a detailed analysis
of opinion about evolution
among religious groups, see
Publics Views on Evolution,
Dec. 30, 2013.)
Solid Liberals (86%) and the
Next Generation Left (83%)
are the most likely to say
humans have evolved over
time. Majorities of Young
Outsiders (68%) and Business
Conservatives (57%) also say
this.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics (50% evolved vs. 46% have existed in present form) and the Faith and
Family Left (44%-49%) are both divided on the question.
Among Steadfast Conservatives, more say humans and other living things have existed in their
present form since the beginning of time (53%) than say they have evolved (39%).
Among those who say evolution has occurred, slightly more say that this is the result of natural
processes such as natural selection (34% of the public) than say a supreme being guided the
process (23%). Majorities of Solid Liberals (62%) and the Next Generation Left (55%), along with
41% of Young Outsiders, say humans evolved as a result of natural processes. Among all other
typology groups, far fewer say humans evolved as a result of natural processes.
Majorities of Solid Liberals, Next Generation Left Say
Humans Have Evolved Through Natural Selection
Humans and other living things have
------------------Evolved over time-----------------
Existed in their
present form since
the beginning of
time
NET
Due to natural
processes
Guided by a
supreme being
% % % %
Total 61 34 23 34

Steadfast Conservs 39 14 21 53
Business Conservs 57 26 27 36
Young Outsiders 68 41 24 29
Hard-Pressed Skeptics 50 21 24 46
Next Generation Left 83 55 23 16
Faith and Family Left 44 16 23 49
Solid Liberals 86 62 19 13
2014 Political Typology. QC135/QC135a. Dont know responses not shown. Subgroups
may not add to NETs because of rounding and omission of dont know responses.
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7
55
16
49
24
49
84
39
89
37
78
42
68
41
12
54
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Favor Oppose
4
48
8
43
15
31
74
31
93
43
88
49
78
58
18
62
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Accepted Discouraged
By a two-to-one margin, the public says homosexuality should be accepted by society (62%) rather
than discouraged (31%), but there are deep divisions on this question across typology groups.
Fissures emerge on both sides of the partisan spectrum. For instance, about three-quarters of
Steadfast Conservatives (74%) believe homosexuality should be discouraged, but a 58% majority of
Business Conservatives think homosexuality should be accepted. And Young Outsiders, by a 78%-
15% margin, also say homosexuality should be accepted rather than discouraged by society.
On the left, overwhelming majorities of both Solid Liberals (93%) and the Next Generation Left
(88%) say homosexuality should be accepted. However, just 43% of the Faith and Family Left and
49% of the Democratic-leaning Hard-Pressed Skeptics agree.
Views about homosexuality generally are closely connected to attitudes on same-sex marriage.
Overall, a 54% majority favor allowing gays and lesbians to marry legally; about four-in-ten (39%)
oppose same-sex marriage.
Business Conservatives Favor Societal Acceptance of Homosexuality
% who say
Homosexuality should be. View of gay marriage

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9
54
24
48
37
59
70
43
87
40
71
44
58
33
24
51
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Illegal in all/
most cases
Legal in all/
most cases
Roughly nine-in-ten Solid Liberals (89%) favor same-sex marriage, as do 78% of the Next
Generation Left. The Faith and Family Left and Hard-Pressed Skeptics take a more conservative
stance: 55% of the Faith and Family Left and 49% of the Hard-Pressed Skeptics oppose allowing
gays and lesbians to marry legally.
As in views on homosexuality, Young Outsiders hold more liberal views on same-sex marriage
than the two conservative groups. Nearly seven-in-ten (68%) Young Outsiders favor gay marriage;
just 24% are opposed. While most Business Conservatives think homosexuality should be accepted
(58%), only 41% favor same-sex marriage. Among Steadfast Conservatives, there is overwhelming
opposition to same-sex marriage: 84% are opposed, while only 12% are in favor.
A similar pattern of opinions is seen on the issue of abortion. Overall, about half of the public
(51%) says abortion should be legal in all or most cases, while 43% think it should be illegal in all
or most cases.
On the left, majorities of Solid Liberals (87%)
and the Next Generation Left (71%) support
legal abortion. The Democratic-leaning Hard-
Pressed Skeptics are roughly divided (48%
illegal vs. 44% legal). Among the Faith and
Family Left, more say abortion should be
illegal in all or most cases (54%) than say it
should be legal all or most cases (40%).

On the other end of the ideological spectrum,
70% of Steadfast Conservatives think abortion
should be illegal in all or most cases making
them the group most likely to hold this view by
a wide margin. A majority of Business
Conservatives also are against legal abortion
(59%).
Abortion is another question on which the
Republican-leaning Young Outsiders hold
more socially liberal views than their more solidly-Republican counterparts: 58% say abortion
should be legal in all or most cases, while 37% believe it should be illegal in all or most cases.
Views on Abortion
% who say abortion should be

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77
30
72
43
65
28
16
50
18
64
24
51
30
66
80
46
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Just as well off if
people have
priorities other
than marriage &
children
Better off
if people
prioritize
marriage &
having children
When it comes to whether people should prioritize marriage and having children, the public is
about evenly divided: 46% say society is better off if people make marriage and having children a
priority, while 50% believe society is just as
well off if people have priorities other than
family and marriage.
Steadfast Conservatives are the most likely to
think marriage and having children should be
prioritized (80% say this), while two-thirds of
Business Conservatives (66%) agree.
They are joined in this view by 64% of the
Democratic-leaning and highly religious
Faith and Family Left.
By contrast, large majorities of the three
youngest typology groupsSolid Liberals
(77%), the Next Generation Left (72%) and the
Republican-leaning Young Outsiders (65%)
say society is just as well off without people
prioritizing marriage and having children.
Faith and Family Left Differ From Other
Dem Groups in Prioritizing Marriage
% who say that society is

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13
36
24
44
36
56
72
38
78
46
65
41
52
35
20
50
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
More likely than
others to
encourage violence
Not more likely
to encourage
violence
Roughly four-in-ten Americans (38%) say the
Islamic religion is more likely than others to
encourage violence among its believers, while
half (50%) say it does not encourage violence
more than other religions.

More than three-quarters of Solid Liberals
(78%), along with 65% of the Next Generation
Left, reject the idea that Islam is more violent
than other religions. By contrast, about seven-
in-ten (72%) Steadfast Conservatives say Islam
is more likely than other religions to
encourage violence among its believers.

Opinion is less one-sided among other
typology groups. Although a majority of
Business Conservatives (56%) say Islam is
more likely than other religions to encourage
violence, 35% say it is not. Hard-Pressed
Skeptics are divided (44% say Islam does
encourage violence more, 41% say it does not).
And while more among both the Young Outsiders and the Faith and Family Left say Islam is no
more likely to encourage violence than other religions, 36% in both of these groups say it is.
Views of Islam and Violence
% who say Islamic religion is

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38
54
41
87
85
28
71
60
55
39
54
10
12
67
24
35
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Focus more at
home, less on
overseas
Best for country
to be active in
world affairs
Section 6: Foreign Affairs, Terrorism and Privacy
The Pew Research Centers political typology finds evidence of the publics continued wariness
about U.S. global involvement. In the poll, conducted January through March of this year, 60% say
the U.S. should pay less attention to problems overseas and concentrate on problems here at
home, while just 35% say its best for the future of the country to be active in world affairs.
This is little changed from the previous political typology study in 2011, when 58% wanted the U.S.
to pay less attention to overseas problems. But a decade ago, fewer (49%) wanted the U.S. to focus
less on international problems. (For more on public attitudes toward Americas global role, see
Public Sees U.S. Power Declining as Support for Global Engagement Slips, Dec. 3, 2013.)
U.S. global involvement divides both the right
and left, though to different degrees. Business
Conservatives express strong support for an
active U.S. global role, with 67% saying it is
best for the country to be active in world
affairs. Steadfast Conservatives take the
opposite view and prioritize focusing on
problems at home by a 71% to 24% margin.
The two middle groups of the typology
Young Outsiders and Hard-Pressed Skeptics
overwhelmingly want the U.S. to focus more
on problems at home (85% of Young
Outsiders, 87% of Hard-Pressed Skeptics).
On the left, narrow majorities of Solid Liberals
(55%) and the Next Generation Left (54%) say
it is best for the country to be active in world
affairs. The Faith and Family Left disagree,
with 54% saying it would be better to
concentrate on problems at home.

Conservatives Deeply Divided Over
Active U.S. Role in World Affairs
% who say

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37
22
27
57
59
20
55
40
54
71
67
38
35
74
39
53
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
U.S. involvement
makes world
problems worse
Problems in
world would be
worse w/o U.S.
Despite the publics reticence about global involvement, 53% say that problems in the world would
be even worse without U.S. involvement; 40% say that U.S. efforts to solve world problems usually
end up making things worse.
However, majorities in three typology groups
Young Outsiders (59%), Hard-Pressed
Skeptics (57%) and Steadfast Conservatives
(55%) say U.S. global efforts actually make
world problems worse.
The other groups disagree: Business
Conservatives express the strongest support
for U.S. efforts to solve problems around the
world 74% say they would be worse without
U.S. intervention. Large majorities of the Faith
and Family Left (71%) and Next Generation
Left (67%) share this view. But fewer Solid
Liberals (54%) think that global problems
would be worse without U.S. involvement;
37% say U.S. actions to alleviate world
problems make things worse.
.
Majorities in Three Groups Say U.S.
Global Efforts Make Problems Worse
% who say

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5
28
17
28
20
67
71
30
91
62
76
64
73
22
22
62
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Military
strength
Good
diplomacy

Most Americans see good diplomacy (62%) rather than military strength (30%) as the best way to
ensure peace. This view is held by most
typology groups, with the exception of
Steadfast and Business Conservatives, who
hold strong pro-military views.
About seven-in-ten Steadfast Conservatives
(71%) and Business Conservatives (67%)
believe the best way to ensure peace is through
military strength, rather than good diplomacy.
Among the other typology groups, clear
majorities say good diplomacy is the best way
to achieve peace. Among Solid Liberals, an
overwhelming 91% see good diplomacy as the
best way to ensure peace; just 5% think
military strength is the best way to ensure
peace.
What Is the Best Way to Ensure Peace?
% who say best way to ensure peace is

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8
53
23
31
21
68
72
37
88
38
71
62
75
22
22
57
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Overwhelming
force best way to
defeat terrorism
Too much force
creates hatred
and more terror
There are similar differences in opinions
about the use of force to defeat terrorism
around the world. Among the public
generally, just 37% say using overwhelming
military force is the best way to defeat
terrorism, while a majority (57%) says
relying too much on military force creates
hatred that leads to more terrorism.
By greater than three-to one, both groups of
conservatives support the use of
overwhelming force to defeat terrorism
around the world. The other groups in the
typology take the opposite view, with one
notable exception.
About half (53%) of the Faith and Family Left
say using overwhelming force is the best way
to defeat terrorism. Fewer (38%) think that
the use of force creates hatred that leads to
more terrorism.

Democratic Groups Differ Over Use of
Overwhelming Force against Terrorism

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72
66
66
83
80
69
80
74
24
28
30
14
18
27
18
22
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Should not have
to give up
privacy for safety
Give up privacy
for safety from
terrorism
There is broad agreement that Americans
should not have to sacrifice civil liberties to be
safe from terrorism. This is a view shared
across all typology groups.
Overall, 74% say Americans shouldnt have to
give up privacy and freedom in order to be safe
from terrorism, while just 23% say Americans
need to be willing to give up privacy and
freedom in order to be safe from terrorism.
Opinion is more divided on the specific matter
of the NSAs data collection program. A
majority of Americans (54%) disapprove of the
governments collection of telephone and
internet data as part of anti-terrorism efforts;
42% approve of the program.

Public Rejects Need to Give up Privacy
in Order to Be Safe From Terrorism
% who say

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58
39
44
56
57
61
69
54
38
53
53
39
39
36
28
42
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Disapprove Approve
This is a rare issue on which the right and left
agree: 69% of Steadfast Conservatives oppose
the governments data collection program, as
do 61% of Business Conservatives and 58% of
Solid Liberals.
The other Democratically-oriented groups
support the data collection program, though
by fairly modest margins. About half of the
Faith and Family Left and Next Generation
Left (53% each) approve of the program.

Opposition to NSA Surveillance Unites
Conservatives, Solid Liberals
Governments collection of phone and internet data

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27
21
21
44
33
24
51
30
62
66
73
46
58
68
39
59
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Bad thing
for U.S.
Good thing
for U.S.

By about two-to-one, more say free trade
agreements between the U.S. and other
countries have been a good thing (59%) than a
bad thing (30%) for the U.S. Views of free
trade have improved since the spring of 2011,
when the public was more evenly divided (48%
good thing vs. 41% bad thing).
Free trade is supported by most typology
groups, including 73% of the Next Generation
Left and 68% of Business Conservatives.
Steadfast Conservatives are the only group
where more say free trade agreements have
been a bad thing (51%) rather than a good
thing (39%) for the U.S.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics also express doubts
about free trade: About as many see trade
agreements as a bad thing (44%) as a good
thing (46%) for the U.S.

Free Trade Agreements Draw Majority
Support from Most Typology Groups
% who say free trade agreements are a

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33
36
31
41
45
51
66
41
58
57
63
52
49
41
28
51
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Getting tougher
with China on
econ issues
Stronger econ
relationship
with China
When it comes to economic relations with
China, more Americans prioritize building a
stronger relationship with China on economic
issues (51%) over getting tougher with China
on economic policy (41%).
Steadfast Conservatives (66%) are most likely
to support a tougher stance against China.
Among GOP-leaning groups, fewer Business
Conservatives and Young Outsiders support a
tougher approach to China.
Majorities of Democratically-oriented typology
groups prioritize building a stronger economic
relationship with China. The strength of this
view varies somewhat across groups, with the
Next Generation Left being the most likely to
support building a stronger relationship with
China on economic issues (63%), compared
with 52% of Hard-Pressed Skeptics.

Steadfast Conservatives Most Likely to
Favor Tougher Stance Against China
Which is more important

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DK Just not happening Don't know enough yet Human activity Natural patterns DK
7
14
14
16
24
33
25
17
1
10
6
17
9
36
49
17
25
33
34
71
75
35
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
20
7 78
40
53
37
37
7
9
40
9
26
20
23
22
18
12
18
91
70
78
63
61
26
21
61
Section 7: Global Warming, Environment and Energy
Opinions about the environment and energy sharply divide the typology groups, with the two
predominantly Republican groups Steadfast Conservatives and Business Conservatives
standing out for their skepticism of global warming and relatively low support for environmental
protection. The other typology groups generally express pro-environmental views, and majorities
in these groups say the average temperature on Earth has increased over the past few decades.
However, most typology groups also favor building the Keystone XL pipeline, with the notable
exception of Solid Liberals.
Overall, 61% of the public say there is solid evidence that the average temperature on Earth has
been getting warmer over the past few decades, while 35% say there is not solid evidence that the
Earth is warming.
Steadfast and Business Conservatives Say No Solid Evidence of Global Warming
% who say
No solid evidence of warming, because g Yes warming, caused by

2014 Political Typology. QC57/QC58a-b. Subgroups may not add to NETs because of rounding.
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2
14
7
22
13
70
75
25
96
82
90
75
83
22
21
71
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Country has
gone too far
protecting enviro
Do whatever
it takes to
protect enviro
Among those who say the Earth is warming, most say it is caused by human activity (40% of the
public), while fewer say it is because of natural patterns in the Earths environment (18%).
Those who do not believe there is solid evidence the Earth is warming are divided, with as many
saying they just dont know enough yet (17% of the public) as its just not happening (also 17%).
Wide majorities of Steadfast Conservatives (75%) and Business Conservatives (71%) say there is
not solid evidence the Earth is warming the only two typology groups with a majority who hold
this view. Nearly half of Steadfast Conservatives (49%) say warming is not happening at all, while
25% say not enough is yet known. Business Conservatives are divided, with about as many saying
it is not happening (36%) as say that not enough is yet known (33%).
Majorities of Young Outsiders (61%) and Hard-Pressed Skeptics (63%) say there is solid evidence
the Earth is warming. However, just 37% of each group says that the Earth is getting warmer as a
result of human activity.
Broad majorities of the Next Generation Left
(78%) and Faith and Family Left (70%) say
that the average temperature on Earth has
been getting warmer over the past few
decades. The Next Generation Left, however,
are somewhat more likely than the Faith and
Family Left to say warming is the result of
human activity (53% vs. 40%).
An overwhelming majority (91%) of Solid
Liberals say the Earth is warming, and fully
78% say it is because of human activity by
far the highest percentage among typology
groups.
Alongside doubts about global warming, 75%
of Steadfast Conservatives and 70% of
Business Conservatives say the country has
gone too far in its efforts to protect the
environment. Less than a quarter of each
group say the country should do whatever it
takes to protect the environment.
Stark Divide Between Conservatives
and Other Groups in Views of
Environment
% who say

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5
28
15
47
29
84
85
39
93
65
81
47
68
12
11
56
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Stricter enviro
laws cost too
many jobs
Stricter enviro
laws are worth
the cost
There is a stark divide between these two groups and the other typology groups: Clear majorities of
the five other groups including 96% of Solid Liberals and 83% of Republican-leaning Young
Outsiders say that the country should do whatever it takes to protect the environment.
Environmental protection draws more support in principle than when the issue of potential costs
is raised. Among the public, 71% say the country should do whatever it takes to protect the
environment.
But a smaller majority (56%) says stricter environmental laws and regulations are worth the
cost. Nearly four-in-ten (39%) say tougher environmental laws and regulations cost too many
jobs and hurt the economy.
Among Hard-Pressed Skeptics, the most financially-strapped typology group, 75% favor the
country doing whatever is necessary to protect the environment. But as many say stricter
environmental laws hurt the economy as say
they are worth the cost (47%). A similar
pattern is evident, to a lesser extent, among
the Faith and Family Left and the Young
Outsiders; about two-thirds in each of these
groups say stricter environmental regulations
are worth the cost, though larger majorities
(around eight-in-ten) say the country should
do whatever is necessary to protect the
environment.
By comparison, Solid Liberals and the Next
Generation Left are broadly supportive of
environmental laws and regulations; most
Solid Liberals (93%) and those in the Next
Generation Left (81%) say stricter
environmental laws are worth the economic
costs.
And overwhelming majorities of both
Steadfast (85%) and Business Conservatives
(84%) say that stricter environmental
regulations cost too many jobs and hurt the economy.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics Split Over Costs
of Environmental Protection
% who say

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3
29
11
27
21
64
66
28
95
64
83
68
71
22
26
65
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Expand oil,
coal and
natural gas
Develop wind,
solar, hydrogen
alternatives

When it comes to policies to address the countrys energy supply, 65% say the more important
priority should be developing alternative sources such as wind, solar and hydrogen technology;
fewer than half as many (28%) say the priority should be on expanding exploration and production
of oil, coal and natural gas.
Here again, the two most conservative
typology groups are an exception. About two-
thirds of Steadfast Conservatives (66%) and
Business Conservatives (64%) say it is more
important for the country to focus on
expanded production of oil, coal and natural
gas than on developing alternatives such as
wind, solar and hydrogen technology.
Majorities of all other groups prioritize the
development of alternative energy sources
over expanding exploration of fossil fuels.
Solid Liberals (95%) and the Next Generation
Left (83%) are the two groups most likely to
back development of alternative sources of
energy. They are joined in this view by 71% of
Young Outsiders, 68% of Hard-Pressed
Skeptics and 64% of the Faith and Family Left.

Alternative Energy Widely Supported,
Except by Conservative Groups
% who say

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57
24
28
29
29
2
8
27
30
60
62
60
59
94
87
61
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Oppose Favor
While most groups prioritize developing alternative sources of energy over the expanded
production of oil, coal and natural gas, the
Keystone XL pipeline is broadly supported. Six
of the seven typology groups support building
the Keystone XL pipeline, including the Next
Generation Left, which has pro-environmental
views on most measures.
Solid Liberals are the only group in which a
majority opposes the pipeline, which would
transport oil from Canadas oil sands to
refineries in Texas. By nearly two-to-one
(57%-30%), Solid Liberals oppose
construction of the pipeline.
Business Conservatives are nearly unanimous
in their support for building the Keystone XL
pipeline (94%-2%); and almost nine-in-ten
Steadfast Conservatives (87%) also back
construction.
Somewhat smaller majorities of Young Outsiders (59%), Hard-Pressed Skeptics (60%), the Faith
and Family Left (60%) and the Next Generation Left (62%) support building the Keystone
pipeline.
Solid Liberals Only Group to Oppose
Building Keystone XL Pipeline

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10
36
30
53
71
97
94
53
86
54
65
40
25
2
4
41
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Disapprove Approve
Section 8: Health Care, Marijuana, Common Core, Other
Domestic Issues
The Affordable Care Act has been one of the
most divisive issues of Barack Obamas
presidency. The new typology finds nearly
universal opposition to the law on the right. By
contrast, support for the law on the left is not
nearly as widespread or intense.
Overall, more disapprove (53%) than approve
(41%) of the health care law. Opinion about
the legislation is little changed since last fall.
Overwhelming percentages of Business
Conservatives (97%) and Steadfast
Conservatives (94%) oppose the law, with
about nine-in-ten in each group expressing
very strong disapproval (88% of Business
Conservatives, 90% of Steadfast
Conservatives).
Most Young Outsiders (71%) disapprove of the
law, 53% very strongly. And even among the Democratic-leaning Hard-Pressed Skeptics, there is
more opposition (53%) than support (40%).
While 86% of Solid Liberals say they approve of the health care law, other Democratic groups are
less enthusiastic. The Next Generation Left approves of the law 65% to 30%; a smaller majority of
the Faith and Family Left (54%) back the law. Among the three groups, Solid Liberals are the only
one in which a majority (64%) very strongly approves of the law.
Staunch Opposition to ACA on the Right,
Hard-Pressed Skeptics also Disapprove

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33
28
34
20
27
49
31
31
65
69
64
79
72
46
64
67
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Some future
reductions need
to be considered
Benefits should
not be reduced
in any way
While the public is concerned over the budget
deficit and government spending, there is
broad opposition across most political
typology groups to reductions in Social
Security benefits. When asked to think about
the programs long term future, two-thirds
(67%) of the public say that Social Security
benefits should not be reduced in any way,
while just 31% are willing to say that some
reductions in benefits for future retirees need
to be considered.
Business Conservatives are the only group in
which a majority does not oppose the
consideration of cuts in Social Security
benefits. However, nearly as many Business
Conservatives say benefits cuts should not be
considered (46%) as say they should be on the
table (49%).
Among all other groups, at least six-in-ten say
reductions in Social Security benefits should
not be considered.
Broad Opposition to Even Considering
Social Security Benefits Reductions
% who say that, when it comes to the long term future of
Social Security

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16
54
32
43
31
59
69
42
81
43
66
53
67
38
28
54
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Marijuana
should not be
legal
Marijuana
should be
legal
In recent years, Pew Research surveys have documented the rise in support for legal marijuana, as
it has become a majority viewpoint among the public. In the 2014 Typology survey, 54% say they
think marijuana should be made legal, while 42% do not think it should be legal.
Support for legal marijuana is highest among Solid Liberals: about eight-in-ten (81%) say they
think marijuana should be made legal; just 16% say it should not be legal. Slimmer majorities of
the Next Generation Left (66%) and the
Democratic-leaning Hard-Pressed Skeptics
(53%) also support legal marijuana.
However, the Faith and Family Left defined
by their liberal positions on the role and size of
government and more conservative views of
social issues oppose legalizing marijuana by
a 54% to 43% margin.
On the right, views of legal marijuana split the
solidly Republican Steadfast and Business
Conservatives from the Republican-leaning
Young Outsiders. Majorities of Steadfast
Conservatives (69%) and Business
Conservatives (59%) say marijuana should not
be made legal. However, Young Outsiders take
the opposite view: 67% say marijuana should
be legal and 31% say it should not be made
legal.

Faith and Family Left Only Democratic
Group to Oppose Legalizing Marijuana
% who say

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When it comes to the debate over gun policy, the public is evenly split: 49% say it is more
important to protect the right of Americans to own guns, while 48% say it is more important to
control gun ownership. Overall opinion on gun control has been little changed for more than a
year.
While divided on whether the gun policy priority should be protecting gun rights or controlling
gun ownership, most Americans on either side of this issue say that people should be able to own
guns, though with some limits
or restrictions on ownership.
Of the 49% who prioritize gun
rights, most say there should
be some restrictions on
ownership (38% of the public).
Similarly, a majority of those
who prioritize gun control say
that most Americans should
be able to own guns with
certain limits in place (35% of
the public). Relatively few
Americans say that there
should be no restrictions on
gun ownership (11%), or that
gun ownership should be
limited to only law
enforcement and security
personnel (12%).
On gun policy, the difference in views between Solid Liberals and Steadfast and Business
Conservatives are about as large as any seen in the typology survey.
Nearly nine-in-ten Steadfast Conservatives (89%) and 86% of Business Conservatives say it is
more important to protect gun rights than to control ownership. By contrast, a broad majority of
Solid Liberals (81%) say it is more important to control gun ownership.
Gun Control vs. Gun Rights
More important to
------Protect gun rights----- ---Control gun ownership---
NET
Some
restrict-
ions
No
restrict-
ions
NET
Most
own
w/limits
Only
law
officials
% % % % % %
Total 49 38 11 48 35 12

Steadfast Conservs 89 61 28 9 8 1
Business Conservs 86 62 23 13 9 3
Young Outsiders 63 49 13 35 29 6
Hard-Pressed Skeptics 53 42 11 45 33 12
Next Generation Left 39 35 4 60 48 11
Faith and Family Left 33 27 6 63 41 22
Solid Liberals 15 12 3 81 63 16
2014 Political Typology. Q123/Q123a-b. Dont know responses not shown.
Subgroups may not add to NETs because of rounding and omission of dont know responses.
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27
28
28
37
38
61
61
39
53
55
56
46
52
23
25
45
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Oppose
Common Core
educ standards
Favor
Common Core
educ standards
The other Typology groups generally tack toward the dominant position within the party with
which they are more affiliated. About six-in-ten of the Faith and Family Left (63%) and Next
Generation Left (60%) prioritize controlling gun ownership.
Hard-Pressed Skeptics are divided, with about as many saying it is more important to protect the
right of Americans to own guns (53%) as control gun ownership (45%).
The right-leaning Young Outsiders say protecting the right of Americans to own guns (63%),
rather than controlling ownership (35%), should be the more important priority.
Overall, 60% of the public has heard either a lot (18%) or a little (41%) about the Common Core
education standards for students in grades K-12; 40% have heard nothing at all.
Among those who have heard of the standards, 45% say they favor Common Core while 39% are
opposed. Intense views on the issue, while not
widely held, are more prevalent among those
opposed than in favor of the standards: 15%
say they strongly oppose Common Core,
compared with 9% who strongly favor it.
A relatively new issue to public debate,
Common Core has quickly taken on a partisan
cast.
The two solidly-Republican groups, Steadfast
and Business Conservatives, oppose Common
Core by more than two-to-one (61%-25% and
61%-23%, respectively).
By contrast, majorities of the Democratically-
oriented Next Generation Left (56%), Faith
and Family Left (55%), and Solid Liberals
(53%) say they favor the Common Core
education standards.
Common Core Draws Opposition From
the Right
Among those who have heard of Common Core, % who

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30
42
24
33
23
34
45
33
62
52
70
63
72
58
51
61
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Oppose legal
gambling
in state
Favor legal
gambling
in state
Most Americans say they favor legalized casino
gambling in their state (61%), while only about
half as many say they are opposed (33%).
There are only modest differences in views
across typology groups on this question. At
least half of all groups say they favor legal
casino gambling in their state.
Steadfast Conservatives express the greatest
level of concern over legalized gambling in
their state: 51% favor it, 45% are opposed.
Support is highest among Young Outsiders
(72%) and the Next Generation Left (70%), the
two youngest typology groups.

Modest Ideological Differences in Views
of Casino Gambling
% who

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40
59
56
51
56
81
72
56
51
66
68
70
69
73
75
65
40
53
50
48
53
70
68
52
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Section 9: Patriotism, Personal Traits, Lifestyles and
Demographics
The Pew Research Centers June 12 report on political polarization in America found that the right
and left have very different ideas about aspects of life beyond day-to day politics, such as the ideal
features of a community and the types of people they would welcome into their families.
The typology study also demonstrates wide ideological differences in feelings of patriotism, views
about the countrys future, religious beliefs and practices, and even leisure activities and daily
habits. The typology groups also vary widely by demographics. (See the detailed demographics
table at the end of this section.)
Feelings of pride in being American and a belief that honor and duty are core values are much
more widespread among the
two conservative groups than
the other typology groups.
Overall, 81% of Business
Conservatives and 72% of
Steadfast Conservatives say
the phrase often feel proud
to be American describes
them well. These are by far
the highest percentages
across typology groups.
Smaller majorities of the
Faith and Family Left (59%),
Next Generation Left (56%)
and Young Outsiders (56%)
say they often feel a sense of
pride in being American.
However, Hard-Pressed
Skeptics are divided about
as many say they often feel
pride in being American
(51%) as do not (49%). And just 40% of Solid Liberals say they often feel pride in being American;
60% say that characterization does not fit them well.
Conservatives More Likely to Say They Are Often
Proud to be American
% saying each describes them well
Honor and duty
are my core values
Often feel proud
to be American
Think of myself as a
typical American

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42
61
43
51
40
66
69
52
64
50
70
48
61
68
51
59
65
68
62
70
65
66
57
65
82
73
74
75
71
72
65
74
27
57
32
48
34
64
72
46
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
In addition to high levels of patriotism, the groups on the right also are most likely to say they have
a sense of honor and duty. About seven-in-ten Business Conservatives (70%) and Steadfast
Conservatives (68%) say the phrase honor and duty are my core values fits them. Far fewer in
the other typology groups, including just 40% of Solid Liberals, say this description applies well to
them.
Overall, 65% of the public say they think of themselves as a typical American, and this self-
description is shared widely across each of the typology groups, again with the exception of Solid
Liberals. About half of Solid Liberals (51%) say they think of themselves as a typical American
while about as many (49%) do not.
A large majority of Americans (74%) say the phrase compassion and helping others are my core
values describes them well. This description is embraced by majorities across all typology groups,
though Solid Liberals (82%) are the most likely to say it applies to them.
Most Americans (65%) also view themselves as trusting. The proportion saying this ranges from
57% (among Steadfast Conservatives) to 70% (among Hard-Pressed Skeptics).
There are greater differences in peoples perception of whether they are religious and spiritual.
How They View Themselves: Compassion, Trust, Optimism, Religion
Religious
person
Spiritual
person
Upbeat and
optimistic
Trusting
person
Compassion and
helping others are
my core values

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Overall, 46% say they are religious, while slightly more (52%) say they are spiritual.
As might be expected, the highly religious typology groups Steadfast Conservatives, Business
Conservatives and the Faith and Family Left are most likely to say both of these descriptions
apply to them.
In general, there is little difference between the percentage of people who see themselves as
religious and those who say they are spiritual. For example, 64% of Business Conservatives say
they are religious; about as many say they are spiritual (66%).
However, among Solid Liberals, more call themselves spiritual (42%) than say they are religious
(27%). Among the Next Generation Left, more also describe themselves as spiritual (43%) than
religious (32%).
The typology groups also express somewhat different attitudes about the future, reflecting, in part,
their political beliefs and financial circumstances.
Most Americans (59%) say they are generally upbeat and optimistic, but this is not a majority view
across all typology groups. Only about half of the Hard-Pressed Skeptics (48%) and the Faith and
Family Left (50%) who have the lowest family incomes of the typology groups say the phrase
upbeat and optimistic describes them well.
Steadfast Conservatives, who are much better off financially than these two groups, also are
relatively gloomy: 51% describe themselves as upbeat and optimistic. A positive outlook is most
prevalent among the affluent Business Conservatives (68%) and the Next Generation Left (70%).
Most Solid Liberals (64%) and Young Outsiders (61%) also describe themselves as upbeat and
optimistic.

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23
41
7
29
15
23
12
7
20
29
13
24
25
16
25
23
18
21
11
5
16
8
21
13
30
43
18
40
31
59
34
61
42
55
69
49
Bystanders
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
White Evangelical Other
Steadfast Conservatives are one of the most religious groups in the typology. Nearly seven-in-ten
(69%) identify as Protestant, a much higher share than among the public overall (49%). And the
share of Steadfast Conservatives who are white evangelical Protestants (43%) is more than twice as
large as in the public generally (18%).
The Democratic-leaning Faith and Family Left are as likely as Steadfast Conservatives to be
affiliated with a religion (just 7% are unaffiliated), but fewer are white evangelical Protestants and
somewhat more identify as Catholic.
Solid Liberals are the least religious group 41% are not affiliated with a religion; 10% describe
themselves as atheists, 9% say they are agnostic and 22% say they are nothing in particular.
Religious Affiliation and the Typology Groups
% who are Protestant
Catholic Unaffiliated

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29
19
51
21
37
25
47
55
35
Bystanders
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Most Steadfast Conservatives regularly attend
religious services. Overall, 55% say they attend
weekly or more. The Faith and Family Left are
nearly as likely to go to religious services at
least once a week (51%).
Many Business Conservatives also regularly
attend services: 47% go at least once a week,
compared with 35% of the public as a whole.
Only about two-in-ten of the Next Generation
Left (21%) and Solid Liberals (19%) go to
religious services weekly, making them the two
typology groups least likely to be regular
attenders.
How Often Do You Attend Religious
Services?
% saying they attend weekly or more

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56
30
48
28
67
36
20
32
40
41
69
50
70
31
63
77
64
58
Bystanders
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Often struggle
to make
ends meet
Paying the bills
generally not a
problem
The financial challenges facing the Hard-
Pressed Skeptics, who have the lowest family
incomes of the main typology groups, are
shown by the large majority (67%) who say: I
often dont have enough money to make ends
meet. That is by far the highest percentage of
any typology group; even among the young
struggling Bystanders, fewer (56%) say they
routinely face financial shortfalls.
Notably, typology groups on both the right and
left feel relatively comfortable financially.
Nearly eight-in-ten Business Conservatives
(77%) and 64% of Steadfast Conservatives, as
well as large majorities of the Next Generation
Left (70%) and Solid Liberals (69%), say
paying the bills is generally not a problem for
me.

Hard-Pressed Skeptics Often Dont Have
Enough Money to Make Ends Meet
% who say

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4
1
4
2
4
6
4
3
50
24
48
22
50
62
55
42
45
73
47
75
46
32
38
54
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Trade stocks regularly
Have some long-term investments
Have no money in stock market
Hard-Pressed Skeptics face even greater
financial challenges than the Faith and Family
Left, but they are both equally unlikely to be
stock market participants. Overall, 73% of the
Faith and Family Left report having no money
in the stock market, nearly identical to the 75%
of Hard-Pressed Skeptics who are not in the
market.
Slightly more than half of Solid Liberals (55%),
Young Outsiders (54%) and the Next
Generation Left (52%) say they have at least
some long-term investments in the stock
market.
Business Conservatives (68%) are the most
likely to have money in the market, but even
among Business Conservatives, just 6% say
they regularly trade stocks and other funds.

Few Active Investors, Even Among
% who

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12
25
20
21
26
33
31
24
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
24
19
22
21
22
16
11
21
32
38
38
30
41
44
36
36
44
59
57
62
64
58
55
57
53
38
43
40
48
40
34
42
A majority of Americans (57%) say the phrase outdoor person describes them well, and this is
true across six of the seven major typology groups; Solid Liberals (44%) are less likely than the
other groups to say this description fits them well. And just 12% of Solid Liberals say the phrase
hunter, fisher or sportsman describes them well. That also is the lowest percentage among
typology groups.
On the other hand, while 53% of Solid Liberals say they are focused on health and fitness, only
about a third of Steadfast Conservatives (34%) are focused on health and fitness.
Interest in sports and video games also differs across typology groups. Business Conservatives
(44%) and Young Outsiders (41%) are more likely than Hard-Pressed Skeptics (30%) or Solid
Liberals (32%) to say they are sports fans. And Steadfast Conservatives the oldest of the typology
groups are less likely than those in almost all of the other groups to say the phrase computer
and video gamer describes them well.
Leisure Activities of the Typology Groups: Hunting, Sports, Outdoors and Fitness

Hunter, fisher
or sportsman
Video or computer
gamer
Sports
fan
Outdoor
person
Focused on health
and fitness

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75
72
68
64
57
45
40
63
24
26
31
35
41
50
52
34
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Do not
have gun
in home
Have
gun in
home
There also are wide differences across typology
groups in reported gun ownership: About half
in each of the two conservative groups say they
have a gun, rifle or pistol in their homes (52%
of Steadfast Conservatives, 50% of Business
Conservatives).
Gun ownership also is relatively common
among the Young Outsiders, who express
liberal views on many social issues, but are
supporters of gun rights (See Section 2). About
four-in-ten (41%) Young Outsiders have a gun
in their homes.
Only about a quarter of the Faith and Family
Left (26%) and Solid Liberals (24%) have guns
in their homes roughly half the share of the
two conservative groups.

Roughly Half of Steadfast, Business
Conservatives Have Gun in Their Homes
% who

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67
75
72
84
82
86
92
78
13
11
11
9
9
9
3
10
19
13
16
7
8
5
2
11
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Never Once/twice a month At least once a week
Most Americans (78%) say
that in a typical month, they
never use public
transportation; 11% say they
use it at least once a week,
while 10% say they use it
once or twice a month.
Public transportation use is
higher on the left than right.
About a third (32%) of Solid
Liberals say they use public
transportation at least once
or twice a month, including
19% who use it at least once a
week.
By contrast, 92% of Steadfast
Conservatives say they never
use public transportation in a
typical month.

Solid Liberals Most Likely to Use Public Transportation
% who say they use public transportation

2014 Political Typology. ATP(W3): TRANSPORT.
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70
42
58
39
50
45
39
49
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Nearly half of Americans (49%) say the phrase
recycle and reuse as a daily habit describes
them well; about as many (51%) say this does
not describe them.
Solid Liberals are the most likely to describe
recycling and reuse as part of their daily
habits, seven-in-ten (70%) do this, along with
58% of the Next Generation Left.
Recycling is practiced less across most of the
other typology groups. Only about four-in-ten
Steadfast Conservatives (39%), Hard-Pressed
Skeptics (39%) and the Faith and Family Left
(42%) say they recycle and reuse as a daily
habit.

Solid Liberals Most Likely to Recycle
% who say recycle and reuse as a daily habit describes
them well

2014 Political Typology. ATP(W3): ME2e.
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
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Demographic Characteristics of the Typology Groups
Total
Solid
Liberals
Faith and
Family
Left
Next
Generation
Left
Hard-
Pressed
Skeptics
Young
Outsiders
Business
Conservs
Steadfast
Conservs

By-
standers
% % % % % % % %

%
Men 49 44 45 49 42 48 62 59

47
Women 51 56 55 51 58 52 38 41

53

18-29 22 24 15 33 14 30 13 7

38
30-49 33 31 32 36 34 35 33 25

39
50-64 27 28 28 19 32 22 33 36

17
65+ 17 16 24 11 19 12 20 31

6

White 66 69 41 68 61 73 85 87

48
Black 12 13 30 7 20 6 1 2

10
Hispanic 13 8 19 15 9 14 7 4

32

Post graduate 9 21 6 13 2 7 14 5

2
College grad 18 31 12 24 7 18 29 16

8
Some college 32 30 27 36 30 42 34 33

22
HS or less 40 18 54 26 60 33 22 46

67

Family income

$100,000+ 15 22 8 23 5 16 28 16

4
$75,000-100,000 10 12 6 13 5 13 16 13

6
$30,000-$75,000 32 32 31 30 26 36 33 39

23
<$30,000 34 26 45 26 56 27 12 21

58

Union household

Yes 16 20 18 18 15 16 11 16

11
No 83 80 80 81 85 84 88 81

89
2014 Political Typology. Whites and blacks include only those who are not Hispanic; Hispanics are of any race.
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
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Section 10: Political Participation, Interest and Knowledge
On several measures, three groups stand out for their participation in politics: Solid Liberals,
Business Conservatives and Steadfast Conservatives. In addition to being the most likely to say
they always or nearly always vote, these groups also donate money, contact elected officials and
discuss politics with others at the highest rates.
Overall, about seven-in-ten (73%) Americans
are registered to vote and say they always
(49%) or nearly always (22%) vote. This rises
to about nine-in-ten Steadfast Conservatives
(89%) and Business Conservatives (91%), and
more than eight-in-ten Solid Liberals (84%)
Fewer in the Faith and Family Left (74%)
always or nearly always vote, and vote
intentions are comparable among the Next
Generation Left (76%) and Young Outsiders
(75%). Hard-Pressed Skeptics are the least
likely to say they always or nearly always vote
(66%).
A similar pattern emerges when it comes to
paying attention to government and public
affairs and engaging in political activities.
Fully three-quarters of Business Conservatives
(75%) follow whats going on in government
and public affairs most of the time, as do
about two-thirds of Steadfast Conservatives
(68%) and Solid Liberals (65%). Among the four groups in the middle of the typology, less than
half follow government and public affairs to the same degree.
Steadfast, Business Conservatives Most
Likely to Vote
% who say they vote

2014 Political Typology. OFTVOTE. Based on total; asked of
registered voters.
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
56
53
46
45
47
68
71
49
29
22
29
21
28
22
18
22
84
74
76
66
75
91
89
71
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Always Nearly always NET
94

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The three more partisan
groups are also more likely to
engage in a variety of
activities related to politics.
About four-in-ten (39%) say
they have donated money to a
campaign or group working
to elect a candidate, worked
or volunteered for a
campaign, contacted an
elected official or attended a
campaign event in the past
two years.
More than half of Solid
Liberals (59%), Business
Conservatives (57%) and
(53%) have engaged in one or
more of those political
activities in the past two
years. The share drops to 41%
among the Next Generation Left, 35% of Young Outsiders, 32% of the Faith and Family Left, and
26% of Hard-Pressed Skeptics.

Among Four Groups, Less Than Half Frequently Follow
News About Government and Public Affairs
% who

* Activities include donating money to a campaign or group working to elect a candidate,
working/volunteering for a campaign, contacting an elected official and attending a
campaign event.
2014 Political Typology. Q40, Q101, Q105.
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
65
43
46
43
42
75
68
48
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Follow gov't/public affairs most of the time
59
32
41
26
35
57
53
39
Engaged in one or more
activity* in last 2 years
95

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In general, that trend holds for each of the individual activities. Solid Liberals, Business
Conservatives and Steadfast Conservatives are significantly more likely than people in the other
groups to have donated money in the last two years. They are also much more likely to have
contacted an elected official. Solid Liberals stand out as more likely than those in any other group
to have worked or volunteered time for a candidate or campaign.
Solid Liberals, Conservative Groups Participate Most in Political Activities
Total
Solid
Liberals
Faith and
Family
Left
Next
Generation
Left
Hard-
Pressed
Skeptics
Young
Outsiders
Business
Conservs
Steadfast
Conservs
% % % % % % % %
In last 2 years
Campaign donor 15 29 11 14 6 9 24 21
More than $250 4 7 3 3 2 2 7 6
Worked/Volunteered for a
campaign 8 15 8 7 4 6 9 9
Contacted elected official 28 44 19 29 17 25 44 42
Attended a campaign event 15 25 14 18 10 13 22 18
2014 Political Typology. Q101, Q102, Q105.
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Government and politics ranks alongside health and medicine as one of the general topics people
are most interested in. Yet there are wide disparities between the typology groups. About half of
Solid Liberals (52%), Business Conservatives (59%) and Steadfast Conservatives (54%) list politics
and government as one of their top-three interests. Among the other groups, far fewer list politics
as one of their top interests.
Just 29% of both Young Outsiders and the Next Generation Left rank politics as one of the topics
they are most interested in, as do 22% of the Faith and Family Left. And among Hard-Pressed
Skeptics, only 16% rate politics and government as a top interest, near the bottom of the list.
(Note: These questions were asked only of internet users, 89% of the general population.)

Which Topics Are You Most Interested in?
% who say each topic is one of the three they are most interested in
Total
Solid
Liberals
Faith and
Family
Left
Next
Generation
Left
Hard-
Pressed
Skeptics
Young
Outsiders
Business
Conservs
Steadfast
Conservs
% % % % % % % %
Health
37
Politics
52
Health
41
Sci/Tech
41
Health
48
Health
38
Politics
59
Politics
54
Politics
36
Sci/Tech
43
Religion
37
Health
36
Religion
32
Sci/Tech
32
Religion
38
Religion
42
Sci/Tech
32
Health
39
Community
events
26
Politics
29
Entertain
30
Sports
30
Business
30
Health
33
Religion
28
Religion
22
Entertain
23
Entertain
24
Community
events
29
Politics
29
Sci/Tech
29
Community
events
23
Sports
23
Art/Theater
21
Sports
23
Community
events
23
Sci/Tech
26
Entertain
24
Health
24
Sports
21
Community
events
22
Community
events
18
Politics
22
Sports
22
Sports
25
Community
events
21
Sports
21
Sci/Tech
20
Entertain
20
Sports
18
Sci/Tech
19
Art/Theater
21
Politics
16
Business
21
Community
events
19
Business
14
Business
16
Entertain
13
Business
17
Religion
18
Art/Theater
15
Religion
20
Entertain
8
Entertain
9
Art/Theater
14
Business
12
Art/Theater
7
Business
17
Business
8
Art/Theater
11
Art/Theater
6
Art/Theater
3

2014 Political Typology. ATP(W1): Q1/Q2. Respondents were asked about their interest in nine topics. Those who selected more than three
were then asked to select the three they were most interested in. Based on web sample.
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In addition to being more interested in government and politics, Steadfast Conservatives, Business
Conservatives and Solid Liberals are the most likely to discuss government and politics with
others; about six-in-ten report doing so at least a few times a week, compared with four-in-ten or
fewer of the other groups.
Another key measure of political engagement
is how knowledgeable people are about the
current political landscape, and here again the
more ideological groups score far higher.
Nationwide, just 40% of Americans can
correctly identify the partisan balance in both
the House of Representatives and the Senate
(that Republicans have the majority in the
former, and Democrats in the latter). The
remaining six-in-ten know only one (33%) or
neither (28%) of those facts.
Business Conservatives are the most likely to
correctly identify the majority party in both
houses of Congress (69%), followed by Solid
Liberals (60%) and Steadfast Conservatives
(54%).
Fewer than half in any of the other groups can
correctly identify the majority party in both houses. About four-in-ten (42%) of the Next
Generation Left, just three-in-ten (30%) Young Outsiders, and only about a quarter of the Faith
and Family Left (26%) and Hard-Pressed Skeptics (23%) are able to correctly identify both.
These differences are exhibited in how people communicate about politics as well. The two most
conservative groups and the Solid Liberals are more likely than those in other groups to say they
enjoy talking about politics with friends and family.
In addition, those three groups are the most likely to have friends who share their views on
politics. More than half of Steadfast Conservatives (58%) say most of their close friends share their
views, as do 49% of Business Conservatives and 45% of Solid Liberals. By contrast, far fewer in the
middle four groups say this about their close friends, instead saying they either have many friends
with different points of view, or simply that they dont know their friends political views.
Who Controls the Senate and House?
Which has House majority: Republicans or Democrats?
Which has Senate majority: Republicans or Democrats?

2014 Political Typology. Q41, Q42.
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
60
26
42
23
30
69
54
40
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
% answering both
questions correctly
98

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In that same vein, those three groups are more likely to disagree than agree with the statement: It
makes me uncomfortable when people argue about politics. By contrast, more among the Faith
and Family Left agree than disagree that they are uncomfortable when people argue about politics
(57%-42%).
Most Faith and Family Left Uncomfortable When People Argue About Politics
How many close friends share your
views on government and politics?
It makes me uncomfortable when
people argue about politics

2014 Political Typology. ATP(W1): Q44, ATP(W3): AGREE2.
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
45
26
29
26
26
49
58
35
42
33
50
32
46
42
29
39
13
41
21
41
27
8
13
26
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Most share
Some share, but many don't
I don't really know their views
65
42
57
50
53
67
60
55
35
57
43
49
47
32
40
44
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Total
Disagree Agree
99

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Appendix 1: Typology Group Profiles
STEADFAST CONSERVATIVES
12% OF ADULT POPULATION / 15% OF REGISTERED VOTERS / 19% OF VERY ENGAGED
84% Rep/Lean Rep (56% Rep, 28% Lean Rep)

Basic description: This overwhelmingly Republican group holds very conservative attitudes
across most issues, including social policy and the size and scope of government. However, they
are critical of business and Wall Street. Steadfast Conservatives also express highly negative
attitudes toward immigrants and take a skeptical view of U.S. global involvement.
Defining values: Among all typology groups, Staunch Conservatives are the most likely to say they
are angry with the federal government. Just 12% favor same-sex marriage and 24% support legal
abortion the lowest shares of any group. Fully 81% of Steadfast Conservatives think that the
growing number of newcomers from other countries threatens traditional American customs and
values. Most think that U.S. efforts to solve global problems usually make things worse and just
39% think free trade agreements are good for the United States, the lowest percentage of any
group.
Political attitudes: Steadfast Conservatives are highly engaged in politics: fully 74% say they
always or nearly always vote in primary elections. They overwhelmingly supported Mitt Romney in
2012; this year, 88% support the Republican candidate in their congressional district. Steadfast
Conservatives have favorable opinions of several possible GOP candidates in 2016, but just 44%
have a favorable view of New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.
Who they are: Nearly nine-in-ten (87%) are non-Hispanic white and 59% are male. Steadfast
Conservatives are the oldest typology group (31% are 65 or older) and have the highest share of
white evangelical Protestants (43%). They are less educated and have lower family incomes than
Business Conservatives. Still, 64% of Steadfast Conservatives say paying the bills is generally not
a problem.
Lifestyle notes: Many are regular churchgoers (55% attend religious services at least weekly),
while 52% have a gun in their households.
.
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KEY BELIEFS

General
Public
Steadfast
Conservatives
% %
Government is almost always wasteful and inefficient 56 91
Poor people today have it easy because they can get government benefits without
doing anything in return 44 86
Government regulation of business usually does more harm than good 47 85
It is the responsibility of the federal government to make sure all Americans have
health care coverage 47 7

Oppose allowing gays and lesbians to marry legally 39 84
Our country has made the changes needed to give blacks equal rights with whites 49 81
This country been successful more because of its reliance on long-standing
principles than its ability to change 44 78
The countrys best years are behind us 49 76
This country has gone too far in its efforts to protect the environment 25 75

Immigrants today are a burden on our country because they take our jobs, housing
and health care 35 73
The Islamic religion is more likely than others to encourage violence among its
believers 38 72
The best way to ensure peace is through military strength 30 71
U.S. efforts to solve problems around the world usually end up making things worse 40 55

Society is better off if people make marriage and having children a priority 46 80
Religion is a very important part of my life 66 83
Humans and other living things have existed in their present form since the
beginning of time 34 53
PEW RESEARCH CENTER 2014 Political Typology.
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BUSINESS CONSERVATIVES
86% Rep/Lean Rep (49% Rep, 37% Lean Rep)

Basic description: Business Conservatives are traditional small-government Republicans.
Overwhelming percentages think that government is almost always wasteful and it does too much
better left to businesses and individuals. Business Conservatives differ from Steadfast
Conservatives in their strong support for Wall Street and business more generally. There are other
important differences as well: Most Business Conservatives think that immigrants strengthen the
country and take a positive view of U.S. global involvement. They are less socially conservative
than Steadfast Conservatives.
Defining values: Business Conservatives are more likely than other typology groups to identify as
libertarians, though just 27% say that term describes them well. Their political values and
attitudes do reflect a libertarian philosophy in some respects, though there are important
differences as well. They are the only group in which a majority (67%) believes the economic
system is fair to most Americans rather than unfairly tilted in favor of the powerful. Business
Conservatives are not liberal on most social issues, but they are more progressive than Steadfast
Conservatives. For instance, while nearly half of Business Conservatives (49%) oppose same-sex
marriage, 58% say homosexuality should be accepted rather than discouraged.
Political attitudes: They have favorable impressions of several possible GOP candidates in 2016,
but they are most favorable toward Rep. Paul Ryan (79% favorable). Business Conservatives also
are more likely than Steadfast Conservatives to have a favorable view of New Jersey Gov. Christ
Christie (56% vs. 44%). They are knowledgeable about politics and are politically engaged 71%
say they always or nearly always vote in primary elections.
Who they are: Business Conservatives are the most affluent typology group 45% have family
incomes of $75,000 or more; 28% have incomes of at least $100,000. Most Business
Conservatives are 50 or older, but as a group they are not as old as Steadfast Conservatives. Most
are white non-Hispanic (85%) and male (62%). Roughly three-quarters (77%) of Business
Conservatives have attended college and 43% have a four-year degree. Among Steadfast
Conservatives, only about half (54%) have been to college and just 21% have completed their
degrees.
Lifestyle notes: Most Business Conservatives live in the suburbs (54%). Two-thirds of Business
Conservatives (68%) have investments in the stock market and 57% say they are interested in
business and finance both figures are highest among typology groups.
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KEY BELIEFS

General
Public
Business
Conservatives
% %
It is not the responsibility of the federal government to make sure all Americans
have health care coverage 50 92
Government is doing too many things better left to businesses and individuals 51 90
The government today cant afford to do much more to help the needy 51 89
Most people who want to get ahead can make it if theyre willing to work hard 65 88
Some future reductions to Social Security need to be considered 31 49

Stricter environmental laws cost too many jobs and hurt the economy 39 84
Wall Street helps the American economy more than it hurts 45 74
Business corporations make too much profit 56 10

Its best for the future of our country to be active in world affairs 35 67
The best way to ensure peace is through military strength 30 67
Immigrants today strengthen our country because of their hard work and talents 57 64

I worry the government is getting too involved in the issue of morality 62 71
It is not necessary to believe in God in order to be moral and have good values 53 66
Homosexuality should be accepted by society 62 58
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YOUNG OUTSIDERS
14% OF ADULT POPULATION, 15% OF REGISTERED VOTERS, 11% OF VERY ENGAGED
49% Rep/Lean Rep (23% Rep, 26% Lean Rep); 35% Dem/Lean Dem

Basic description: This relatively young, largely independent group holds a mix of conservative
and liberal views. And while more lean toward the Republican Party than the Democratic Party,
Young Outsiders express unfavorable opinions of both major parties. They are skeptical of activist
government; a substantial majority views government as wasteful and inefficient. Yet they diverge
from the two conservative typology groups Steadfast Conservatives and Business Conservatives
in their strong support for the environment and many liberal social policies.

Defining values: A large majority of Young Outsiders (81%) think poor people today have it easy
because they can get government benefits without doing anything in return. That is among the
highest share of any typology group. Two-thirds (66%) say government is doing too much to solve
problems, while only about half as many (32%) want it to do more. Yet most Young Outsiders
favor government action to protect the environment; 68% say stricter environmental laws are
worth the cost. Majorities of Young Outsiders favor same-sex marriage (68%) and legalizing
marijuana (67%), while 58% say abortion should be legal in all or most cases. However, they also
are strong supporters of gun rights. About six-in-ten (63%) say it is more important to protect the
right of Americans to own guns while just 35% think it is more important to control gun
ownership.

Political attitudes: In this falls midterms, Young Outsiders favor the Republican in their district
by 53% to 33%. Yet they are not deeply engaged in politics. Only 42% say they follow whats going
on in politics and government most of the time, and just 30% know that Democrats have a
majority in the Senate and that Republicans control the House. Young Outsiders have divided
views of many political figures; no leading Republican is viewed more positively than negatively.

Who they are: Young Outsiders are one of the youngest typology groups; 30% are under 30 and
most are under 50. About three-quarters (73%) are non-Hispanic whites, and about as many are
male (48%) as female (52%). They are relatively secure financially, for their age profile, and most
(63%) say paying the bills is generally not a problem.

Lifestyle notes: Young Outsiders are detached from religion as well as politics. Just 25% say they
attend religious services at least weekly. Most Young Outsiders say it is important to live in a
community with high quality public schools and where they can live near extended family.
Relatively few place priority on living near people who share their religious faith (23%) or political
views (18%).

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KEY BELIEFS

General
Public
Young
Outsiders
% %
Government aid to the poor does more harm than good 48 86
Government cant afford to do much more to help the needy 51 76
Government regulation of business is necessary to protect the public interest 47 34

Stricter environmental laws and regulations are worth the cost 56 68
Use of marijuana should be legal 54 67
More important to protect gun rights than to control gun ownership 49 63
Abortion should be legal in all or most cases 51 58

We should pay less attention to problems overseas and concentrate on problems
here at home 60 85
U.S. efforts to solve problems around the world usually end up making things worse 40 59
105

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HARD-PRESSED SKEPTICS
53% Dem/Lean Dem (37% Dem, 16% Lean Dem); 32% Rep/Lean Rep

Basic description: Deeply financially-stressed and distrustful of government, Hard-Pressed
Skeptics lean toward the Democratic Party but have reservations about both political parties. They
want government to do more to solve problems, but have doubts about its efficiency. Hard-Pressed
Skeptics are dissatisfied with conditions in the country and their communities. They are among
the most cynical about the ability of individuals to improve their lot through hard work. These
attitudes may reflect their distressed financial conditions: Hard-Pressed Skeptics have the lowest
family incomes of any of the typology groups.

Defining values: Seven-in-ten (71%) Hard-Pressed Skeptics say the poor have hard lives because
government benefits dont go far enough to help them live decently. Despite their strong support
for a government safety net, however, most take a dim view of government performance. Fully
72% say government is wasteful and inefficient, far higher than any other Democratic-leaning
group. Their opinions about business and Wall Street are equally negative. More generally, 74%
think the U.S. economic system favors powerful interests. About eight-in-ten (79%) view
immigrants as a burden on the country. They also are wary of U.S. global involvement. An
overwhelming 87% of Hard-Pressed Skeptics think the U.S. should pay less attention to overseas
problems and concentrate more on problems at home.

Political attitudes: Just 39% of Hard-Pressed Skeptics say they are interested in government and
politics, the lowest percentage of any typology group. Fewer than a quarter (23%) are aware of
which parties control the House and Senate. In 2012, 62% of registered voters in this group say
they voted for Barack Obama. But today, just 44% of Hard-Pressed Skeptics approve of Obamas
job performance. Just 26% have a favorable view of House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi while
39% view her unfavorably. But Hillary Clinton is popular with Hard-Pressed Skeptics: 62% have a
favorable impression of Clinton.

Who they are: About six-in-ten (61%) are non-Hispanic whites; 20% are black, while 9% are
Hispanic. Hard-Pressed Skeptics have the highest share of women (58%) of any typology group.
Just 9% are college graduates, by far the lowest percentage of all the groups; 60% have no more
than a high school education. More than half (56%) have annual family incomes less than
$30,000. About half (51%) are 50 or older, which is somewhat higher than the share of older
Americans in the public (44%).

Lifestyle notes: Only about a third of Hard-Pressed Skeptics (32%) say they work-full-time.
Nearly half (46%) live in the suburbs, but more express a preference for living in a small town than
in a suburb or city.

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KEY BELIEFS

General
Public
Hard-Pressed
Skeptics
% %

I often dont have enough money to make ends meet 40 67
Hard work and determination are no guarantee of success for most people 32 65
The country cant solve many of its important problems 50 64
The countrys best years are behind us 49 61

Poor people have hard lives because government benefits dont go far enough 47 71
Government should do more to help the needy even if it means going deeper into debt 43 66

Immigrants today are a burden on the country 35 79
Wall Street hurts the economy more than it helps 42 54

U.S. should pay less attention to problems overseas and concentrate at home 60 87
U.S. effort to solve problems around the world usually end up making things worse 40 57
Free trade agreements with other countries have been a bad thing for U.S. 30 44

Religion is a very important part of life 66 76
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NEXT GENERATION LEFT
65% Dem/Lean Dem (35% Dem, 29% Lean Dem)

Basic description: Young, well-educated and financially comfortable, the Next Generation Left
have very liberal attitudes on many issues, including homosexuality and abortion, the
environment and foreign policy. They are supportive of an activist government, but wary of
expanding the social safety net. They also have relatively positive views of Wall Streets impact on
the economy. While most affiliate with the Democratic Party or lean Democratic, few consider
themselves strong Democrats.
Defining values: Fully 88% of the Next Generation Left say that homosexuality should be
accepted by society and 78% favor same-sex marriage. Just 24% believe society is better off if
people make getting married and having children a priority. The Next Generation Left are not
critical of government 67% say it often does a better job than people give it credit for. And
most think government aid to the poor does more good than harm. Yet 56% say the government
cannot afford to do much more to help the needy. The Next Generation Left value racial and ethnic
diversity, but just 19% think that racial discrimination is holding back many blacks; far more
(68%) say blacks who cant ahead are responsible for their own condition.
Political attitudes: The Next Generation Left were solidly in the Democratic camp in 2012 and
are likely to be there again this year 61% of registered voters support the Democratic candidate
for Congress in their district, or lean Democratic, in a 2014 ballot test. However, 49% think the
Democratic Party too often sees government as the only way to solve problems. Only about a
third of the Next Generation Left (35%) are Democrats and just 15% say they are strong
Democrats. Still, most (65%) at least lean to the Democratic Party. This group has the highest
share of self-described moderates (53%) in the political typology.
Who they are: About two-thirds (68%) are non-Hispanic whites and 15% are Hispanic. One of the
two youngest groups, the average age is 41 and a third (33%) are younger than 30. Roughly three-
quarters (74%) have some college experience and 62% are financially satisfied.
Lifestyle notes: Only about half of the Next Generation Left (47%) view religion as very important
and only about one-in-five (21%) attend services at least weekly. Most (71%) have an interest in
science and technology. While 57% say it is important to live close to museums and theaters, an
even higher percentage (70%) value access to the outdoors for hiking, fishing and camping.

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KEY BELIEFS

General
Public
Next Generation
Left
% %
Government aid to the poor does more good than harm 47 68
The government today cant afford to do much more to help the needy 51 56
Wall Street HELPS the American economy more than it hurts 45 56
Most corporations make a fair and reasonable amount of profit 39 45

It is NOT necessary to believe in God in order to be moral and have good values 53 91
Most people who want to get ahead can make it if theyre willing to work hard 65 77
Favor allowing gays and lesbians to marry legally 54 78
Blacks who cant get ahead are mostly responsible for their own condition 63 68
Our country has made the changes needed to give blacks equal rights with whites 49 67

Good diplomacy is the best way to ensure peace 62 76
Free trade agreements with other countries have been good for the U.S. 59 73
Relying too much on military force to defeat terrorism creates hatred that leads to
more terrorism 57 71
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FAITH AND FAMILY LEFT

Basic description: The Faith and Family Left combine strong support for activist government
with conservative attitudes on many social issues. They are highly diverse this is the only
typology group that is majority-minority. The Faith and Family Left favor increased government
aid for the poor even if it adds to the deficit and believe that government should do more to solve
national problems. They oppose same-sex marriage and legalizing marijuana. Religion and family
are at the center of their lives. Most say it is necessary to believe in God in order to be moral.

Defining values: Fully 85% of the Faith and Family Left say religion is very important and 51%
want the government to do more to protect morality -- the highest percentage of any typology
group. Most support government aid to the poor: 59% say it does more good than harm because
people are unable to escape poverty unless their basic needs are met. Fully 74% support
affirmative action programs and just 23% think the country has made needed changes to give
blacks equal rights. Yet a majority of the Faith and Family Left (57%) say that blacks who are
unable to get ahead are responsible for their own condition.

Political attitudes: Most say they voted for Obama in 2012 and this year 63% of registered voters
support the Democratic candidate for Congress in their district. Yet they have the highest share of
self-described conservatives (37%) of any Democratic-leaning typology group. Just half know that
the GOP has a majority in the House and even fewer (44%) know that Democrats have a majority
in the Senate.

Who they are: The Faith and Family Left includes the highest share of African Americans (30%)
and Hispanics (19%) of any typology group; they also have the largest share of foreign-born (18%).
One of the least educated (54% have no more than a high school education), and lowest income
groups (45% make less than $30,000 a year). Roughly half (51%) are 50 and older.

Lifestyle notes: Two-thirds (66%) say they are interested in religion and spirituality. Roughly half
(51%) attend services at least weekly. Fully 73% say compassion and helping others are core
values. Just 38% are interested in health and fitness, among the lowest shares of any typology
group.
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KEY BELIEFS

General
Public
Faith & Family
Left
% %
Government often does a better job than people give it credit for 40 63
Government aid to poor does more good than harm 46 59

Religion is very important part of life 66 85
Society is better off when people make marriage and having children a priority 46 64
Humans and other living things have evolved over time 61 44

Racial discrimination is the main reason why many blacks cant get ahead these days 27 31
View affirmative action programs as a good thing 63 74
Immigrants strengthen our country because of their hard work and talents 57 70

Favor allowing gays and lesbians to marry legally 54 37
Marijuana should be legal 54 43
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SOLID LIBERALS

BASIC DESCRIPTION: Highly educated and affluent, Solid Liberals strongly support the social
safety net and take very liberal positions on virtually all issues. Most say they always vote
Democratic and they are unflagging supporters of Barack Obama. Solid Liberals are very
optimistic about the nations future and are the most likely to say that Americas success is linked
to its ability to change, rather than its reliance on long-standing principles. On foreign policy, Solid
Liberals overwhelmingly believe that good diplomacy rather than military strength is the best
way to ensure peace; in addition, most say that relying too much on military force to defeat
terrorism creates hatred that fuels more terrorism.

DEFINING VALUES: Fully 83% of Solid Liberals say the government should do more to help the
needy, even if it means going deeper into debt. About as many (87%) say government regulation of
business is necessary to protect the public interest. An equally large majority (87%) says abortion
should be legal in all or most cases; 44% say there should be no restrictions at all on abortion.
Nearly six-in-ten (58%) say that religion is not that important to them. Eight-in-ten say racial
discrimination is the main reason blacks cant get ahead; among the public generally, just 27%
express this view.

POLITICAL ATTITUDES: Solid Liberals strongly backed Barack Obama in 2012 and remain
supportive of him today: 84% approve of his job performance, with 51% approving very strongly.
Solid Liberals view other leading Democrats positively as well. Nearly nine-in-ten (88%) have a
favorable opinion of Hillary Clinton. Sen. Elizabeth Warren is not as well known; still, 61% view
the Massachusetts senator favorably while just 9% view her unfavorably. About as many have a
very favorable impression of Warren as Clinton (40% Warren, 42% Clinton). While Solid Liberals
view many leading Republicans unfavorably, they have especially negative opinions of Sen. Ted
Cruz: 2% have a favorable opinion of Cruz, compared with 71% who view him unfavorably 62%
very unfavorably.

WHO THEY ARE: The most highly educated of the typology groups, 52% have college degrees and
21% have graduate degrees. They also are the most urban group (47% live in urban areas), and are
generally satisfied with their financial situation. A majority of Solid Liberals (56%) are women.
Nearly half (46%) seldom or never attend religious services.

LIFESTYLE NOTES: Solid Liberals prefer an urban lifestyle: 45% say if they could live anywhere
they wanted, they would live in a city. And 73% would rather live in a community with smaller
houses closer to schools and shopping, than one with larger houses where things are farther apart;
that is the highest percentage of any typology group. A large majority (69%) values living in a
community that is in close proximity to art museums and theaters. Just 12% say the description
hunter, fisher or sportsman fits them well, the lowest share of any typology group.

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KEY BELIEFS

General
Public
Solid
Liberals
% %
U.S. economic system unfairly favors powerful interests 62 88
Solid evidence that global warming is caused by human activity 40 78
Government often does a better job than people give it credit for 40 70

Racial discrimination is the main reason why many blacks cant get ahead these days 27 80
This country has been successful more because of its ability to change
than reliance on long-standing principles 51 79
Children are better off when a parent stays home to focus on the family 60 40

Good diplomacy is the best way to ensure peace 62 91
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BYSTANDERS
10% OF ADULT POPULATION, 0% OF REGISTERED VOTERS
43% Dem/Lean Dem (19% Dem, 24% Lean Dem), 23% Rep/Lean Rep (7% Rep, 16% Lean
Rep), 34% Ind/Other no leaning

Basic description: Bystanders are on the sidelines of the political process, either by choice or
because they are ineligible to vote. None are currently registered to vote. Most follow government
and public affairs only now and then (32%) or hardly at all (32%).

Who they are: Nearly four-in-ten Bystanders (38%) are under 30. About a third (32%) are
Hispanic, 10% are black and 48% are non-Hispanic whites. A third were born outside the United
States. Bystanders have low levels of education and household income. Two-thirds (67%) have no
college experience; just 11% are college graduates. Nearly six-in-ten (58%) have family incomes of
$30,000 or less.

Lifestyle notes: Bystanders like the outdoors: 66% think of themselves as an outdoor person. In
addition, 35% describe themselves as a video or computer gamer. Among the public generally,
just 21% think of themselves as video gamers. Bystanders are more likely to say they are interested
in celebrities and entertainment than the public overall (64% vs. 44%); about two-thirds (64%) are
interested in health and medicine, and 50% follow science and technology. Bystanders express
relatively low interest in business and finance and, not surprisingly, government and politics.

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Appendix 2: About the Political Typology
The 2014 political typology divides the public into seven politically engaged groups, along with an
eighth group of less engaged Bystanders. The assignment of individuals to one of the seven core
typology groups is based on their responses to 23 questions about social and political values.
The questions used in the typology construction are in a balanced alternative format where
respondents choose which of two statements most closely reflects their own views (Q25 and Q50
in the topline). Items included in the typology construction measure a variety of dimensions of
political values and are used to group people in multi dimensional political space. Many of these
values are similar to those used in past typology studies; however this years typology is a
departure from past analyses because it uses individual questions; in prior years, scales measuring
underlying political dimensions were constructed using many of the same questions. This new
approach allowed for the inclusion of some additional values not used in prior typologies (for
instance, values about U.S. involvement in world affairs). In addition, unlike previous typologies,
this years typology does not include any measure of party affiliation in the model, nor does it
include measures of personal financial security.
The typology groups are created using cluster analysis, a statistical procedure that uses
respondents scores on all 23 items to sort them into relatively homogeneous groups. The tables on
the following pages show each of the questions and the distribution of responses among of each of
the seven typology groups (excluding Bystanders).
Cluster analysis is not an exact process. Different cluster solutions are possible using the same
data depending on model specifications and even the order in which respondents are sorted. In
order to address the sensitivity of cluster analysis to the order in which cases are entered, each
cluster model was run several thousand times, and the results compared, to identify the solution
that produced the set of groups that were both homogeneous internally and different from one
another with respect to the set of political values. In technical terms, the solution for each model
with the lowest sum of squared error of the clusters was chosen. Models with different numbers of
clusters were examined, and the results evaluated for their effectiveness in producing cohesive
groups that were sufficiently distinct from one another, large enough in size to be analytically
practical and substantively meaningful.
While each model differed somewhat from the others, all of them shared certain key features. The
final model selected to produce the political typology was judged to be strongest from a statistical
point of view, most persuasive from a substantive point of view, and was representative of the
general patterns seen across the various cluster solutions.
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As in past typologies, a measure of political attentiveness and voting participation was used to
extract the Bystander group, people who are largely not engaged or involved in politics, before
the remaining respondents were sorted into groups. Bystanders are defined as those who are: 1)
Not registered to vote; 2) Say they seldom or never vote; and 3) Do not follow government and
public affairs most of the time. They represent 10% of the overall population and were held aside
prior to scale development and assignment of the remaining 90% of respondents to their typology
groups.
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6
29
32
21
81
77
86
86
62
54
71
10
9
7
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Poor have it easy
b/c get govt
benefits without
doing anything
Poor have hard
lives b/c
benefits don't
go far enough
83
58
39
66
18
6
11
12
35
56
27
76
89
85
Govt should do
more to help
needy
Americans
Govt can't
afford to do
much more
7
33
26
33
86
80
86
91
59
68
60
9
13
10
Govt aid to poor
does more harm
than good
Govt aid to
poor does
more good
than harm
25
31
30
72
75
88
91
70
63
67
25
21
10
7
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Govt usually
wasteful and
inefficient
Govt does
better job than
it gets credit for
87
67
75
28
34
14
11
9
26
19
66
61
81
85
Govt regulation
of business is
necessary for
public interest
Govt
regulation
usually does
more harm
than good

Questions Used in Creating the Political Typology
Views of the Social Safety Net
% who say

Views of Government
% who say

See topline for full question wording for each item. Dont know responses not shown.
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6
23
67
39
70
83
81
91
72
28
56
26
12
15
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
U.S. has made
changes to
make blacks
equal
U.S. needs to
continue to
make changes
for equality
80
31
19
28
9
7
5
10
57
68
63
84
82
89
Racial discrim
is main reason
blacks can't get
ahead
Blacks who
can't get ahead
are responsible
for condition
93
70
83
14
48
64
17
3
22
11
79
43
21
73
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Immigrants
strengthen our
country b/c of hard
work and talents
Immigrants are
a burden b/c
they take jobs,
housing, health
care
5
25
9
72
39
20
81
92
66
88
23
55
72
13
Growing # of
newcomers
threatens US
customs/values
Newcomers
strengthen
American
society

Questions Used in Creating the Political Typology Continued
Views about Race
% who say

Views of Immigrants
% who say

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80
54
50
79
66
10
33
16
41
45
18
31
86
62
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Business
corporations make
too much profit
Most
companies
make a fair and
reasonable
profit
95
76
82
85
88
35
71
4
19
15
12
9
57
22
Too much
power in the
hands of large
companies
The largest
companies do
not have too
much power
18
64
24
51
30
66
80
77
30
72
43
65
28
16
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Society is better
off if most
prioritize
marriage and
having children
Society is just
as well off if
people have
other priorities
93
43
88
49
78
58
18
4
48
8
43
15
31
74
Homosexuality
should be
accepted
Homosexuality
should be
discouraged
89
7
91
31
70
66
29
11
91
7
66
28
31
69
It is not
necessary to
believe in God
be moral
It is necessary
to believe in
God to be
moral

Views of Business
% who say...

Views about Family, Religion, Homosexuality
% who say...
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5
28
17
28
20
67
71
91
62
76
64
73
22
22
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Best way to
achieve peace
through military
strength
Diplomacy is
the best way to
ensure peace
8
53
23
31
21
68
72
88
38
71
62
75
22
22
Overwhelming
military force is
best way to
defeat terrorism
Military force
creates hatred
that leads to
more terorism
37
22
27
57
59
20
55
54
71
67
38
35
74
39
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
U.S. involvement
around the world
makes things
worse
Things would
be even worse
without U.S.
involvement
24
28
30
14
18
27
18
72
66
66
83
80
69
80
Americans
need to give up
privacy to be
safe from
terrorism
Americans
shouldn't have
to give up
privacy to be
safe
55
39
54
10
12
67
24
38
54
41
87
85
28
71
Best for U.S. to
be active in
world affairs
Should focus
more on
problems at
home

Views about Foreign Policy, Terrorism
% who say...

% who say...

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29
82
77
32
76
88
81
67
16
21
65
22
10
17
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
Most people
can get ahead if
willing to work
hard
Hard work is no
guarantee of
success for
most
36
12
6
30
8
5
9
56
84
91
64
89
93
89
Success in life is
determined by
forces outside
our control
Everyone has
it in their
power to
succeed
96
82
90
75
83
22
21
2
14
7
22
13
70
75
Solid Liberals
Young Outsiders
Business Conservs
Steadfast Conservs
U.S. should do
whatever it takes
to protect
environment
U.S. has gone
too far in
protecting
environment
5
28
15
47
29
84
85
93
65
81
47
68
12
11
Stricter
environmental
laws cost too
many jobs
Stricter
environmental
laws are worth
the cost

Views about Individualism
% who say...

Views about the Environment
% who say...

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Appendix 3: About the Surveys
The data in this report are based on three independent survey administrations with the same
randomly selected, nationally representative group of respondents. The first is the centers largest
survey on domestic politics to date: the 2014 Political Polarization and Typology Survey, a
telephone survey of just over 10,000 Americans. A subset of these respondents has been
impaneled into the newly created American Trends Panel. Follow-up surveys have been conducted
with them, and this report includes data from two of these follow-up surveys (the first by Web and
telephone, the second by Web and mail). The main telephone survey and the panel surveys are
described separately, in further detail, in the section that follows.
Most of the analysis in this report is based on telephone interviews conducted January 23-March
16, 2014 among a randomly selected national sample of 10,013 adults, 18 years of age or older,
living in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia (5010 respondents were interviewed on a
landline, and 5003 were interviewed on a cellphone, including 2,649 who had no landline
telephone). The survey was conducted under the direction of Abt SRBI. A combination of landline
and cellphone random digit dial samples were used; both samples were provided by Survey
Sampling International. Interviews were conducted in English and Spanish. Respondents in the
landline sample were selected by randomly asking for the youngest adult male or female who was
at home at the time of the call. Interviews in the cell sample were conducted with the person who
answered the phone, if that person was an adult 18 years of age or older. For detailed information
about our survey methodology, see http://people-press.org/methodology/.
Data collection was divided equally into three phases (A, B, and C) with independent samples,
non-overlapping interview dates and separate weighting. The questionnaire for each phase
contained a core set of measures of political attitudes and values, political engagement and
demographic characteristics, along with a set of unique questions about issues, lifestyle, media use
and other topics covered in this series of reports. Additionally, most respondents to the survey
were invited to join the newly created Pew Research Centers American Trends Panel, described
below.

The combined landline and cellphone sample is weighted using an iterative technique that
matches gender, age, education, race, Hispanic origin and nativity and region to parameters from
the 2012 Census Bureau's American Community Survey and population density to parameters
from the 2010 U.S. Census. The sample is also weighted to match current patterns of telephone
status (landline only, cellphone only or both landline and cellphone), based on extrapolations
from the 2013 National Health Interview Survey. The weighting procedure accounts for the fact
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that respondents with both landline and cellphones have a greater probability of being included in
the combined sample and adjusts for household size among respondents with a landline phone.
Sampling errors and statistical tests of significance take into account the effect of weighting.
The following table shows the unweighted sample sizes and the error attributable to sampling that
would be expected at the 95% level of confidence for different groups in the survey:

Sample sizes and sampling errors for other subgroups are available upon request.
In addition to sampling error, one should bear in mind that question wording and practical
difficulties in conducting surveys can introduce error or bias into the findings of opinion polls.
Group Total sample for all three phases Single phase (phase with smallest N shown)

Unweighted
sample size Plus or minus
Unweighted
Total sample 10013 1.1 percentage points 3335 2.0 percentage points

Steadfast Conservatives 1427 3.0 percentage points 457 5.3 percentage points
Business Conservatives 1197 3.3 percentage points 380 5.8 percentage points
Young Outsiders 1246 3.2 percentage points 391 5.7 percentage points
Hard-Pressed Skeptics 1135 3.4 percentage points 347 6.1 percentage points
Next Generation Left 1208 3.3 percentage points
389
5.7 percentage points
Faith and Family Left 1393 3.0 percentage points
445
Solid Liberals 1752 2.7 percentage points
563
Bystanders 655 4.4 percentage points
202
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Sample Design
A combination of landline and cellphone random digit dial samples were used; both samples were
provided by Survey Sampling International. Landline and cellphone numbers were sampled to
yield an equal number of landline and cellphone interviews.
The design of the landline sample ensures representation of both listed and unlisted numbers
(including those not yet listed) by using random digit dialing. This method uses random
generation of the last two digits of telephone numbers selected on the basis of the area code,
telephone exchange and bank number. A bank is defined as 100 contiguous telephone numbers,
for example 800-555-1200 to 800-555-1299. The telephone exchanges are selected to be
proportionally stratified by county and by telephone exchange within the county. That is, the
number of telephone numbers randomly sampled from within a given county is proportional to
that countys share of telephone numbers in the U.S. Only banks of telephone numbers containing
one or more listed residential numbers are selected.
The cellphone sample is drawn through systematic sampling from dedicated wireless banks of
1,000 contiguous numbers and shared service banks with no directory-listed landline numbers (to
ensure that the cellphone sample does not include banks that are also included in the landline
sample). The sample is designed to be representative, both geographically and by large and small
wireless carriers.
Both the landline and cell samples are released for interviewing in replicates, which are small
random samples of each larger sample. Using replicates to control the release of telephone
numbers ensures that the complete call procedures are followed for all numbers dialed. The use of
replicates also improves the overall representativeness of the survey by helping to ensure that the
regional distribution of numbers called is appropriate.
Respondent Selection
Respondents in the landline sample were selected by randomly asking for the youngest male or
female, 18 years of age or older who was at home at the time of the call (for half of the households
interviewers ask to speak with the youngest male first, and for the other half the youngest female).
If there is no eligible person of the requested gender at home, interviewers ask to speak with the
youngest adult of the opposite gender now at home. This method of selecting respondents within
households improves participation among young people, who are often more difficult to interview
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than older people because of their lifestyles, but this method is not a random sampling of
members of the household.
Unlike a landline phone, a cellphone is assumed in Pew Research polls to be a personal device.
Interviewers ask if the person who answers the cellphone is 18 years of age or older to determine if
the person is eligible to complete the survey; interviewers also confirm that the person is not
driving and is in a safe place. For those in the cell sample, no effort is made to give other
household members a chance to be interviewed. Although some people share cellphones, it is still
uncertain whether the benefits of sampling among the users of a shared cellphone outweigh the
disadvantages.
Interviewing
Interviewing was conducted under the direction of Abt SRBI. Interviews were conducted in
English and Spanish. Data collection was divided equally into three phases (A, B and C) with
independent samples, non-overlapping interview dates and separate weighting. The questionnaire
for each phase contained a core set of measures of political attitudes and values, political
engagement and demographic characteristics, along with a set of unique questions about issues,
lifestyle, media use and other topics covered in this series of reports.
As many as seven attempts were made to complete an interview at every sampled landline and
cellphone number. Calls were staggered over times of day and days of the week (including at least
one daytime call) to maximize the chances of making contact with a potential respondent. An
effort was made to recontact most interview breakoffs or refusals to attempt to convert them to
completed interviews. People reached on cellphones were offered $5 compensation for the
minutes used to complete the survey. Additionally, most respondents to the survey were invited to
join the newly created Pew Research Centers American Trends Panel (see below).
Overall, the response rate was 11.2% for the landline sample and 9.8% for the cell sample. The
response rate is the percentage of known or assumed residential households for which a
completed interview was obtained, and is computed using the American Association for Public
Opinion Researchs method for Response Rate 3 (RR3) as outlined in their Standard Definitions.
Weighting
The landline sample is first weighted by household size to account for the fact that people in larger
households have a lower probability of being selected. In addition, the combined landline and
cellphone sample is weighted to adjust for the overlap of the landline and cell frames (since people
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with both a landline and cellphone have a greater probability of being included in the sample),
including the relative size of each frame and each sample.
The sample is then weighted to population parameters using an iterative technique that matches
gender, age, education, race, Hispanic origin and nativity, region, population density and
telephone usage. The population parameters for gender, age, education, race/ethnicity and region
are from the Census Bureaus 2012 American Community Survey (ACS) one-year estimates, and
the parameter for population density is from the 2010 U.S. Census. The parameter for telephone
usage (landline only, cellphone only, both landline and cellphone) is based on extrapolations from
the 2013 National Health Interview Survey. The specific weighting parameters are: gender by age,
gender by education, age by education, race/ethnicity (including Hispanic origin and nativity),
region, density and telephone usage; non-Hispanic whites are also balanced on age, education and
region. The weighting procedure simultaneously balances the distributions of all weighting
parameters. The final weights are trimmed to prevent individual cases from having a
disproportionate influence on the final results.
Weighting cannot eliminate every source of nonresponse bias. Nonetheless, properly-conducted
public opinion polls have a good record of obtaining unbiased samples.
Sampling Error
Sampling error results from collecting data from some, rather than all, members of the population.
The 2014 Political Polarization and Typology Survey of 10,013 adults had a margin of sampling
error of plus or minus 1.1 percentage points with a 95% confidence interval. This means that in 95
out of every 100 samples of the same size and type, the results we obtain would vary by no more
than plus or minus 1.1 percentage points from the result we would get if we could interview every
member of the population. Thus, the chances are very high (95 out of 100) that any sample we
draw will be within 1.1 points of the true population value. The margins of error reported and
statistical tests of significance are adjusted to account for the surveys design effect, a measure of
how much efficiency is lost from the weighting procedures.
Many of the findings in this report are based on parts of the sample, such as the interviews in a
single phase of the study (approximate sample size 3,333) or on subgroups such as Democrats or
women. The sampling error for these will be larger than for the total sample. Sampling error for
frequently-cited subgroups and for the individual phases are reported above.
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The American Trends Panel (ATP), created by the Pew Research Center, is a nationally
representative panel of randomly selected U.S. adults living in households. Respondents who self-
identify as internet users (representing 89% of U.S. adults) participate in the panel via monthly
self-administered Web surveys, and those who do not use the internet participate via telephone or
mail. The panel is being managed by Abt SRBI.
Data in this report are drawn from two waves of the panel. The March-April wave (ATP W1) was
conducted March 19-April 29, 2014 among 3,308 respondents (2,901 by Web and 407 by phone).
The margin of sampling error for the full sample of 3,308 respondents is plus or minus 2.2
percentage points.
The May wave (ATP W3) of the panel was conducted May 5-27, 2014 among 3,243 respondents
(2,906 by web and 337 by mail). The margin of sampling error for the full sample of 3,243
respondents is plus or minus 2.3 percentage points.
All current members of the American Trends Panel were originally recruited from the 2014
Political Polarization and Typology Survey, a large (n=10,013) national landline and cellphone
random digit dial (RDD) survey conducted January 23rd to March 16th, 2014, in English and
Spanish. At the end of that survey, respondents were invited to join the panel. The invitation was
extended to all respondents who use the internet (from any location) and a random subsample of
respondents who do not use the internet.
1

Of the 10,013 adults interviewed, 9,809 were invited to take part in the panel. A total of 5,338
agreed to participate and provided either a mailing address or an email address to which a
welcome packet, a monetary incentive and future survey invitations could be sent. Panelists also
receive a small monetary incentive after participating in each wave of the survey.
The ATP data were weighted in a multi-step process that begins with a base weight incorporating
the respondents original survey selection probability and the fact that some panelists were
subsampled for invitation to the panel. Next, an adjustment was made for the fact that the
propensity to join the panel varied across different groups in the sample. The final step in the
weighting uses an iterative technique that matches gender, age, education, race, Hispanic origin,
telephone service, population density and region to parameters from the U.S. Census Bureau's

1
When data collection for the 2014 Political Polarization and Typology Survey began, non-internet users were subsampled at a rate of
25%, but a decision was made shortly thereafter to invite all non-internet users to join. In total, 83% of non-internet users were
invited to join the panel.
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2012 American Community Survey. It also adjusts for party affiliation using an average of the
three most recent Pew Research Center general public telephone surveys, and for internet use
using as a parameter a measure from the 2014 Survey of Political Polarization. Sampling errors
and statistical tests of significance take into account the effect of weighting.
The Web component of the March-April wave had a response rate of 61% (2,901 responses among
4,753 Web-based individuals enrolled in the panel); the telephone component had a response rate
of 70% (407 responses among 585 non-Web individuals enrolled in the panel). Taking account of
the response rate for the 2014 Survey of Political Polarization (10.6%), the cumulative response
rate for the March-April ATP wave is 3.6%.
The Web component of the May wave had a response rate of 61% (2,906 responses among 4,740
Web-based individuals enrolled in the panel); the mail component had a response rate of 61% (337
responses among 553 non-Web individuals enrolled in the panel). Taking account of the response
rate for the 2014 Survey of Political Polarization (10.6%), the cumulative response rate for the May
ATP wave is 3.5%.
The following table shows the unweighted sample sizes and the error attributable to sampling that
would be expected at the 95% level of confidence for different groups in the two panel waves:
Sample sizes and sampling errors for other subgroups are available upon request.
In addition to sampling error, one should bear in mind that question wording and practical
difficulties in conducting surveys can introduce error or bias into the findings of opinion polls.
Pew Research Center, 2014
Sample Size and Margin of Error for American Trends Panel Waves
Group March-April (ATP W1) May (ATP W3)

Unweighted
Unweighted
Total sample 3308 2.2 percentage points 3243 2.3 percentage points

Steadfast Conservatives 428 6.1 percentage points 427 6.2 percentage points
Business Conservatives 441 6.0 percentage points 445 6.1 percentage points
Young Outsiders 419 6.1 percentage points 415 6.3 percentage points
Hard-Pressed Skeptics 288 7.4 percentage points 261 7.9 percentage points
Next Generation Left 450 5.9 percentage points
445
Faith and Family Left 305 7.2 percentage points
301
Solid Liberals 823 4.4 percentage points
802
Bystanders 154 10.1 percentage points
147
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PEW RESEARCH CENTER
2014 POLITICAL POLARIZATION AND TYPOLOGY SURVEY
FINAL TOPLINE
Phase A: January 23-February 9, 2014 N=3,341
Phase B: February 12-26, 2014 N=3,337
Phase C: February 27-March 16, 2014 N=3,335
Combined N=10,013

ASK ALL PHASE A:
Q.A1 Generally, how would you say things are these days in your life -- would you say that you are very
happy, pretty happy, or not too happy?

Very Pretty Not too (VOL.)
happy happy happy DK/Ref
Jan 23-Feb 9, 2014 30 53 15 2
Nov 28-Dec 5, 2012 (SDT) 29 51 16 4
Jul 16-26, 2012 (SDT) 30 47 21 1
Dec 6-19, 2011 (SDT) 31 50 15 3
Sep 1-15, 2011 (SDT) 30 47 20 3
Mar 15-29, 2011 (SDT) 30 52 16 2
Jan 14-27, 2010 (SDT) 28 54 16 2
Jul 20-Aug 2, 2009 (SDT) 34 49 15 3
Apr 2-8, 2009 (SDT) 29 52 16 4
Feb 23-Mar 23, 2009 (SDT) 32 49 15 4
Oct 3-19, 2008 (SDT) 29 51 17 3
Jun 16-Jul 16, 2008 (SDT) 35 48 14 3
October, 2006 36 51 12 1
November, 2005 29 56 14 1
October, 2005 (SDT) 34 50 15 1
Late March, 2003 29 51 16 4
February, 2003 29 51 17 3
September, 1996 34 53 11 2

ASK ALL PHASE C:
Q.C1 Do you approve or disapprove of the way Barack Obama is handling his job as President? [IF DK
ENTER AS DK. IF DEPENDS PROBE ONCE WITH: Overall do you approve or disapprove of the
way Barack Obama is handling his job as President? IF STILL DEPENDS ENTER AS DK]

Dis- (VOL.)
Approve Approve DK/Ref
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 44 49 7
Feb 14-23, 2014 44 48 8
Jan 15-19, 2014 (U) 43 49 8
Dec 3-8, 2013 (U) 45 49 6
Oct 30-Nov 6, 2013 41 53 6
Oct 9-13, 2013 43 51 6
Sep 4-8, 2013 (U) 44 49 8
Jul 17-21, 2013 46 46 7
Jun 12-16, 2013 49 43 7
May 1-5, 2013 51 43 6
Mar 13-17, 2013 47 46 8
Feb 13-18, 2013 (U) 51 41 7
Jan 9-13, 2013 52 40 7
Dec 5-9, 2012 55 39 6
Jun 28-Jul 9, 2012 50 43 7
Jun 7-17, 2012 47 45 8
May 9-Jun 3, 2012 46 42 11
Apr 4-15, 2012 46 45 9
Mar 7-11, 2012 50 41 9
Feb 8-12, 2012 47 43 10
Jan 11-16, 2012 44 48 8

Dis- (VOL.)
Dec 7-11, 2011 46 43 11
Nov 9-14, 2011 46 46 8
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 43 48 9
Aug 17-21, 2011 43 49 7
Jul 20-24, 2011 44 48 8
Jun 15-19, 2011 46 45 8
May 25-30, 2011 52 39 10
May 5-8, 2011 50 39 11
May 2, 2011 (WP) 56 38 6
Mar 30-Apr 3, 2011 47 45 8
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 51 39 10
Feb 2-7, 2011 49 42 9
Jan 5-9, 2011 46 44 10
Dec 1-5, 2010 45 43 13
Nov 4-7, 2010 44 44 12
Oct 13-18, 2010 46 45 9
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 47 44 9
Jul 21-Aug 5, 2010 47 41 12
Jun 8-28, 2010 48 41 11
Jun 16-20, 2010 48 43 9
May 6-9, 2010 47 42 11
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Q.C1 CONTINUED
Dis- (VOL.)
Apr 21-26, 2010 47 42 11
Apr 8-11, 2010 48 43 9
Mar 10-14, 2010 46 43 12
Feb 3-9, 2010 49 39 12
Jan 6-10, 2010 49 42 10
Dec 9-13, 2009 49 40 11
Oct 28-Nov 8, 2009 51 36 13
Sep 30-Oct 4, 2009 52 36 12
Sep 10-15, 2009 55 33 13

Dis- (VOL.)
Aug 20-27, 2009 52 37 12
Aug 11-17, 2009 51 37 11
Jul 22-26, 2009 54 34 12
Jun 10-14, 2009 61 30 9
Apr 14-21, 2009 63 26 11
Mar 31-Apr 6, 2009 61 26 13
Mar 9-12, 2009 59 26 15
Feb 4-8, 2009 64 17 19

ASK IF APPROVE OR DISAPPROVE (Q.C1=1,2):
Q.C1a Do you [approve/disapprove] very strongly, or not so strongly?

BASED ON TOTAL PHASE C:

---------------Approve---------------- -------------Disapprove-------------
Very Not so (VOL.) Very Not so (VOL.) (VOL.)
Total strongly strongly DK/Ref Total strongly strongly DK/Ref DK/Ref
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 44 26 17 1 49 38 11 1 7
Dec 3-8, 2013 (U) 45 26 16 3 49 39 9 1 6
Jun 12-16, 2013 49 31 17 2 43 33 10 * 7
Jan 9-13, 2013 52 35 15 2 40 31 8 1 7
Apr 4-15, 2012 46 30 15 2 45 36 8 1 9
Jan 11-16, 2012 44 27 15 2 48 35 12 1 8
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 43 26 15 2 48 34 13 1 9
Aug 17-21, 2011 43 26 15 2 49 38 11 1 7
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 51 32 18 2 39 29 10 1 10
Jan 5-9, 2011 46 27 16 2 44 30 13 1 10
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 47 28 17 2 44 32 11 1 9
Jun 16-20, 2010 48 29 17 2 43 31 11 1 9
Jan 6-10, 2010 49 30 15 3 42 30 11 1 10
Apr 14-21, 2009 63 45 13 5 26 18 8 * 11

ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B2 All in all, are you satisfied or dissatisfied with the way things are going in this country today?

Satis- Dis- (VOL.)
fied satisfied DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 28 66 6
Jan 15-19, 2014 26 69 5
Oct 30-Nov 6, 2013 21 75 3
Oct 9-13, 2013 14 81 5
Jul 17-21, 2013 27 67 6
May 1-5, 2013 30 65 5
Feb 13-18, 2013 (U) 31 64 5
Jan 9-13, 2013 30 66 4
Dec 17-19, 2012 25 68 7
Dec 5-9, 2012 33 62 5
Oct 18-21, 2012 32 61 8
Jun 28-Jul 9, 2012 31 64 5
Jun 7-17, 2012 28 68 5
May 9-Jun 3, 2012 29 64 7
Apr 4-15, 2012 24 69 6
Feb 8-12, 2012 28 66 6
Jan 11-16, 2012 21 75 4
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 17 78 5
Aug 17-21, 2011 17 79 4
Jul 20-24, 2011 17 79 4
Satis- Dis- (VOL.)
Jun 15-19, 2011 23 73 4
May 5-8, 2011 30 62 8
May 2, 2011 32 60 8
Mar 8-14, 2011 22 73 5
Feb 2-7, 2011 26 68 5
Jan 5-9, 2011 23 71 6
Dec 1-5, 2010 21 72 7
Nov 4-7, 2010 23 69 8
Sep 23-26, 2010 30 63 7
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 25 71 5
Jun 24-27, 2010 27 64 9
May 13-16, 2010 28 64 7
Apr 21-26, 2010 29 66 5
Apr 1-5, 2010 31 63 6
Mar 11-21, 2010 25 69 5
Mar 10-14, 2010 23 71 7
Feb 3-9, 2010 23 71 6
Jan 6-10, 2010 27 69 4
Oct 28-Nov 8, 2009 25 67 7
Sep 30-Oct 4, 2009 25 67 7
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Q.B2 CONTINUED
Satis- Dis- (VOL.)
Sep 10-15, 2009
1
30 64 7
Aug 20-27, 2009 28 65 7
Aug 11-17, 2009 28 65 7
Jul 22-26, 2009 28 66 6
Jun 10-14, 2009 30 64 5
Apr 28-May 12, 2009 34 58 8
Apr 14-21, 2009 23 70 7
Jan 7-11, 2009 20 73 7
December, 2008 13 83 4
Early October, 2008 11 86 3
Mid-September, 2008 25 69 6
August, 2008 21 74 5
July, 2008 19 74 7
June, 2008 19 76 5
Late May, 2008 18 76 6
March, 2008 22 72 6
Early February, 2008 24 70 6
Late December, 2007 27 66 7
October, 2007 28 66 6
February, 2007 30 61 9
Mid-January, 2007 32 61 7
Early January, 2007 30 63 7
December, 2006 28 65 7
Mid-November, 2006 28 64 8
July, 2006 30 65 5
May, 2006* 29 65 6
March, 2006 32 63 5
January, 2006 34 61 5
Late November, 2005 34 59 7
July, 2005 35 58 7
Late May, 2005* 39 57 4
February, 2005 38 56 6
January, 2005 40 54 6
December, 2004 39 54 7
Mid-October, 2004 36 58 6
July, 2004 38 55 7
May, 2004 33 61 6
Late February, 2004* 39 55 6
Early January, 2004 45 48 7
December, 2003 44 47 9
October, 2003 38 56 6
August, 2003 40 53 7
April 8, 2003 50 41 9

1
In September 10-15, 2009 and other surveys noted with
an asterisk, the question was worded Overall, are you
satisfied or dissatisfied with the way things are going in our
country today?

Satis- Dis- (VOL.)
January, 2003 44 50 6
November, 2002 41 48 11
September, 2002 41 55 4
Late August, 2002 47 44 9
May, 2002 44 44 12
March, 2002 50 40 10
Late September, 2001 57 34 9
Early September, 2001 41 53 6
June, 2001 43 52 5
March, 2001 47 45 8
February, 2001 46 43 11
January, 2001 55 41 4
October, 2000 (RVs) 54 39 7
September, 2000 51 41 8
June, 2000 47 45 8
April, 2000 48 43 9
August, 1999 56 39 5
January, 1999 53 41 6
November, 1998 46 44 10
Late August, 1998 55 41 4
Early August, 1998 50 44 6
February, 1998 59 37 4
January, 1998 46 50 4
September, 1997 45 49 6
August, 1997 49 46 5
January, 1997 38 58 4
July, 1996 29 67 4
March, 1996 28 70 2
October, 1995 23 73 4
June, 1995 25 73 2
April, 1995 23 74 3
July, 1994 24 73 3
March, 1994 24 71 5
October, 1993 22 73 5
September, 1993 20 75 5
May, 1993 22 71 7
January, 1993 39 50 11
January, 1992 28 68 4
November, 1991 34 61 5
Gallup: Late Feb, 1991 66 31 3
August, 1990 47 48 5
May, 1990 41 54 5
January, 1989 45 50 5
September, 1988 (RVs) 50 45 5
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ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B3 And thinking about the local community where you live, are you satisfied or dissatisfied with the
way things are going in your local community today?

(VOL.)
Satisfied Dissatisfied DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 66 31 3
Mar 11-21, 2010 62 34 4
Gallup: January, 2007
2
79 20 1
March, 2006 66 31 3
Gallup: January, 2005 75 24 1
February, 2001 73 22 5
March, 1994 68 27 5

ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B4 Thinking about the future of the United States, do you think the country's best years are ahead of
us or behind us?

Gallup
Feb 12-26 Dec 14-17
2014 2012
3

44 Ahead of us 47
49 Behind us 50
7 Dont know/Refused (VOL.) 3

QUESTIONS B5, A6, A8, A9 PREVIOUSLY RELEASED
NO QUESTIONS 7,10

ASK ALL:
Next,
Q.11 Would you say your overall opinion of [INSERT ITEM; RANDOMIZE] is very favorable, mostly
favorable, mostly UNfavorable, or very unfavorable? [INTERVIEWERS: PROBE TO
DISTINGUISH BETWEEN NEVER HEARD OF AND CANT RATE.] How about [NEXT ITEM]?

(VOL.) (VOL.)
------ Favorable ------ ----- Unfavorable ----- Never Cant rate/
Total Very Mostly Total Very Mostly heard of Ref
a. The Republican Party
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 37 7 30 55 24 31 * 7
Dec 3-8, 2013 (U) 35 8 27 59 28 31 0 6
Oct 9-13, 2013 38 5 32 58 26 32 * 4
Jul 17-21, 2013 33 7 25 58 25 34 * 9
Jun 12-16, 2013 40 8 32 55 23 33 * 5
Jan 9-13, 2013 33 6 28 58 27 31 1 8
Dec 5-9, 2012 36 7 28 59 23 36 * 5
Sep 12-16, 2012 42 12 30 50 25 26 * 8
Jun 28-Jul 9, 2012 36 9 27 56 28 28 * 8
Mar 7-11, 2012 36 7 30 56 27 29 * 8
Jan 11-16, 2012 35 7 27 58 28 30 * 7
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 36 7 29 55 27 28 * 9
Aug 17-21, 2011 34 5 29 59 27 32 * 7
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 42 9 32 51 22 28 1 7
Feb 2-7, 2011 43 8 35 48 19 29 * 9
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 43 8 35 49 21 28 * 8
July 1-5, 2010 39 10 29 49 24 25 * 12

2
For January 10-14, 2001 through January 15-18, 2007 the Gallup question read, All in all, are you satisfied or
dissatisfied with the way things are going in your local community?
3
In December 2012, Gallup asked When you think about the future of the United States, which do you agree with more:
the country's best years are ahead of us or the country's best years are behind us?
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Q.11 CONTINUED
(VOL.) (VOL.)
April 1-5, 2010 37 8 29 53 26 27 * 9
Mar 18-21, 2010 37 5 32 51 20 31 * 12
Feb 3-9, 2010 46 5 41 46 14 32 0 8
Aug 20-27, 2009 40 6 34 50 19 31 * 10
Aug 11-17, 2009 40 7 33 50 18 32 * 10
Mar 31-Apr 6, 2009 40 7 33 51 17 34 0 9
Jan 7-11, 2009 40 5 35 55 21 34 * 5
Late October, 2008 40 10 30 50 23 27 * 10
Mid-September, 2008 47 11 36 46 22 24 * 7
August, 2008 43 9 34 49 18 31 1 7
Late May, 2008 39 7 32 53 20 33 * 8
July, 2007 39 7 32 53 22 31 0 8
Early January, 2007 41 9 32 48 21 27 1 10
Late October, 2006 41 9 32 50 20 30 * 9
July, 2006 40 10 30 52 23 29 1 7
April, 2006 40 10 30 50 21 29 * 10
February, 2006 44 11 33 50 24 26 * 6
Late October, 2005 42 12 30 49 24 25 * 9
July, 2005 48 13 35 43 18 25 * 9
June, 2005 48 11 37 44 20 24 0 8
December, 2004 52 15 37 42 17 25 0 6
June, 2004 51 12 39 40 14 26 0 9
Early February, 2004 52 14 38 42 16 26 * 6
June, 2003 58 14 44 33 10 23 0 9
April, 2003 63 14 49 31 10 21 * 6
December, 2002 59 18 41 33 11 22 * 8
July, 2001 48 11 37 42 15 27 * 10
January, 2001 56 13 43 35 13 22 * 9
September, 2000 (RVs) 53 11 42 40 12 28 0 7
August, 1999 53 8 45 43 12 31 * 4
February, 1999 44 7 37 51 15 36 0 5
January, 1999 44 10 34 50 23 27 0 6
Early December, 1998 46 11 35 47 20 27 * 7
Early October, 1998 (RVs) 52 9 43 42 14 28 0 6
Early September, 1998 56 9 47 37 11 26 * 7
March, 1998 50 10 40 43 12 31 * 7
August, 1997 47 9 38 47 11 36 * 6
June, 1997 51 8 43 42 11 31 1 6
January, 1997 52 8 44 43 10 33 * 5
October, 1995 52 10 42 44 16 28 * 4
December, 1994 67 21 46 27 8 19 * 6
July, 1994 63 12 51 33 8 25 * 4
May, 1993 54 12 42 35 10 25 0 11
July, 1992 46 9 37 48 17 31 * 6

b. The Democratic Party
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 46 12 34 47 23 24 * 7
Dec 3-8, 2013 (U) 47 15 32 48 24 24 * 5
Oct 9-13, 2013 47 9 39 48 22 27 0 4
Jul 17-21, 2013 41 10 31 50 23 28 * 9
Jun 12-16, 2013 51 14 37 45 19 26 0 5
Jan 9-13, 2013 47 13 34 46 18 28 * 7
Dec 5-9, 2012 48 11 37 47 23 25 1 4
Sep 12-16, 2012 53 21 32 40 18 22 * 7
Jun 28-Jul 9, 2012 47 14 33 45 21 24 * 8
Mar 7-11, 2012 49 14 36 43 18 25 * 7
Jan 11-16, 2012 43 13 29 51 23 28 * 7
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Q.11 CONTINUED
(VOL.) (VOL.)
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 46 13 32 45 19 26 * 9
Aug 17-21, 2011 43 9 34 50 21 29 * 7
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 48 14 34 45 18 27 * 6
Feb 2-7, 2011 47 13 35 46 17 29 * 6
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 50 13 36 44 20 24 * 7
July 1-5, 2010 44 12 31 45 22 23 * 11
April 1-5, 2010 38 9 29 52 27 25 * 9
Mar 18-21, 2010 40 8 32 49 25 24 * 11
Feb 3-9, 2010 48 9 39 44 17 27 * 8
Aug 20-27, 2009 48 11 37 43 19 24 * 10
Aug 11-17, 2009 49 12 37 40 16 25 * 10
Mar 31-Apr 6, 2009 59 15 44 34 13 21 * 7
Jan 7-11, 2009 62 19 43 32 12 20 * 6
Late October, 2008 57 19 38 33 15 18 * 10
Mid-September, 2008 55 18 37 39 14 25 * 6
August, 2008 57 16 41 37 13 24 * 6
Late May, 2008 57 14 43 37 14 23 * 6
July, 2007 51 13 38 41 14 27 0 8
Early January, 2007 54 15 39 35 12 23 * 11
Late October, 2006 53 13 40 36 11 25 * 11
July, 2006 47 13 34 44 13 31 2 7
April, 2006 47 12 35 42 14 28 * 11
February, 2006 48 14 34 44 17 27 0 8
Late October, 2005 49 14 35 41 15 26 * 10
July, 2005 50 15 35 41 14 27 * 9
June, 2005 52 12 40 39 13 26 * 9
December, 2004 53 13 40 41 14 27 * 6
June, 2004 54 12 42 36 11 25 0 10
Early February, 2004 58 14 44 37 9 28 * 5
June, 2003 54 11 43 38 10 28 0 8
April, 2003 57 13 44 36 11 25 * 7
December, 2002 54 15 39 37 10 27 * 9
July, 2001 58 18 40 34 10 24 * 8
January, 2001 60 18 42 30 9 21 1 9
September, 2000 (RVs) 60 16 44 35 12 23 * 5
August, 1999 59 14 45 37 9 28 * 4
February, 1999 58 11 47 37 11 26 0 5
January, 1999 55 14 41 38 12 26 0 7
Early December, 1998 59 18 41 34 10 24 0 7
Early October, 1998 (RVs) 56 11 45 38 9 29 * 6
Early September, 1998 60 13 47 33 8 25 * 7
March, 1998 58 15 43 36 10 26 * 6
August, 1997 52 11 41 42 10 32 0 6
June, 1997 61 10 51 33 8 25 * 6
January, 1997 60 13 47 35 7 28 * 5
October, 1995 49 9 40 48 11 37 0 3
December, 1994 50 13 37 44 13 31 * 6
July, 1994 62 13 49 34 7 27 * 4
May, 1993 57 14 43 34 9 25 0 9
July, 1992 61 17 44 33 9 24 * 6

ITEM cb PREVIOUSLY RELEASED
NO ITEM d

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Q.11 CONTINUED
(VOL.) (VOL.)
ASK PHASE B ONLY:
e.B Labor unions
Feb 12-Feb 26, 2014 46 13 33 41 18 23 2 12
Jun 12-16, 2013 51 16 35 42 17 25 1 6
Aug 17-21, 2011 41 11 30 46 21 26 1 12
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 47 18 29 39 17 23 2 12
Feb 2-7, 2011 45 11 34 41 17 25 1 13
Feb 3-9, 2010 41 11 30 42 16 26 1 16
January, 2007 58 18 40 31 11 20 2 9
Late March, 2005 56 17 39 33 9 24 1 9
March, 2002 59 15 44 32 9 23 1 8
July, 2001 51 12 39 36 10 26 1 12
March, 2001 63 16 47 28 7 21 1 8
August, 1999 59 12 47 36 9 27 * 5
Early September, 1998 52 12 40 38 13 25 * 10
June, 1997 58 15 43 35 10 25 * 7
May, 1997 49 15 34 39 13 26 * 12
April, 1996 47 10 37 45 17 28 * 8
February, 1996 54 17 37 41 14 27 * 5
July, 1994 57 14 43 38 10 28 * 5
January, 1988 52 10 42 39 10 29 * 9
July, 1985 46 9 37 47 17 30 * 7

NO ITEMS f, g

ASK PHASE B ONLY:
h.B The National Rifle Association
Feb 12-Feb 26, 2014 53 23 30 37 19 17 2 8
December, 2007 52 22 30 32 14 18 6 10
Late March, 2005 49 18 31 39 17 22 2 10
June, 1999 46 17 29 45 21 24 1 8
September, 1998 48 16 32 40 18 22 2 10
August, 1995 44 16 28 45 21 24 1 10
June, 1995 44 16 28 48 24 24 2 6
July, 1994 55 19 36 37 16 21 1 7

ASK PHASE B ONLY:
i.B The Federal Reserve
Feb 12-Feb 26, 2014 47 10 37 37 14 23 2 14
Oct 9-13, 2013 57 12 45 32 12 20 1 10

ASK PHASE B ONLY:
j.B The Environmental Protection Agency, the EPA
Feb 12-Feb 26, 2014 57 14 43 33 14 19 2 8
Oct 9-13, 2013 62 15 47 30 12 19 2 6
Mar 18-21, 2010 57 11 46 32 12 20 1 10
October, 1997 69 14 55 27 7 20 1 3
Roper, August 1987 62 19 43 30 7 23 -- 8
Roper, August 1986 59 18 41 31 7 24 -- 10
Roper, August 1985 58 19 39 31 11 20 -- 11
Roper, August 1984 68 27 41 26 9 17 -- 6

Q.11at-Q.B12 PREVIOUSLY RELEASED
NO QUESTIONS 13-24

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ASK ALL:
Q.25 I'm going to read you some pairs of statements that will help us understand how you feel about a
number of things. As I read each pair, tell me whether the FIRST statement or the SECOND
statement comes closer to your own views even if neither is exactly right. The first pair is
[READ AND RANDOMIZE PAIRS BUT NOT STATEMENTS WITHIN EACH PAIR]. Next, [NEXT
PAIR] [IF NECESSARY: Which statement comes closer to your views, even if neither is exactly
right?]

4

In Feb 8-12, 2012 survey, question was asked as a stand-alone item.

a.
Government is almost
always wasteful and
inefficient
Government often does a
better job than people
give it credit for
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 56 40 4
Dec 3-8, 2013 55 39 6
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 55 39 6
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 (RVs) 61 35 4
December, 2008 53 40 7
October, 2008 57 35 8
September, 2005 56 39 5
December, 2004 47 45 8
June, 2003 48 46 6
September, 2000 52 40 8
August, 1999 51 43 6
June, 1997 59 36 5
October, 1996 56 39 5
April, 1995 63 34 3
October, 1994 64 32 4
July, 1994 66 31 3

b.
Government regulation of
business is necessary to
protect the public interest
Government regulation of
business usually does
more harm than good
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 47 47 5
Feb 8-12, 2012
4
40 52 7
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 47 45 8
December, 2008 47 43 10
October, 2008 50 38 12
January, 2008 41 50 9
December, 2004 49 41 10
July, 2002 54 36 10
February, 2002 50 41 9
August, 1999 48 44 8
October, 1996 45 46 9
October, 1995 45 50 5
April, 1995 43 51 6
October, 1994 38 55 7
July, 1994 41 54 5

c.
Poor people today have it
easy because they can get
government benefits
without doing anything in
return
Poor people have hard
lives because government
benefits don't go far
enough to help them live
decently
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 44 47 9
Dec 3-8, 2013 43 43 14
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NO ITEM e.

Q.25 CONTINUED

Poor people today have it
easy because they can get
government benefits
without doing anything in
return
Poor people have hard
lives because government
benefits don't go far
enough to help them live
decently
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
May 1-5, 2013 45 44 11
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 41 47 12
January, 2008 34 52 14
December, 2005 35 51 14
September, 2005 38 51 11
December, 2004 34 52 14
June, 2003 34 55 11
August, 1999 45 42 13
June, 1997 45 42 13
October, 1996 46 40 14
October, 1995 54 36 10
April, 1995 52 39 9
October, 1994 48 41 11
July, 1994 53 39 8

d.
The government should do
more to help needy
Americans, even if it
means going deeper into
debt
The government today
can't afford to do much
more to help the needy
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 43 51 6
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 41 51 8
December, 2008 55 35 10
October, 2008 51 37 12
April, 2007 63 28 9
December, 2004 57 33 10
August, 1999 57 35 8
October, 1996 46 44 10
April, 1996 49 44 7
October, 1995 47 47 6
April, 1995 46 47 7
October, 1994 50 43 7
July, 1994 48 47 5

f.
Racial discrimination is the
main reason why many
black people can't get
ahead these days
Blacks who can't get
ahead in this country are
mostly responsible for
their own condition
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 27 63 10
Jan 4-8, 2012 21 60 19
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 26 60 14
Oct 28-Nov 30, 2009 18 67 15
September, 2005 26 59 15
December, 2004 27 60 13
June, 2003 24 64 12
September, 2000 31 54 15
August, 1999 28 59 13
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Q.25 CONTINUED

Racial discrimination is the
main reason why many
black people can't get
ahead these days
Blacks who can't get
ahead in this country are
mostly responsible for
their own condition
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
October, 1997 25 61 14
June, 1997 33 54 13
October, 1996 28 58 14
October, 1995 37 53 10
April, 1995 34 56 10
October, 1994 34 54 12
July, 1994 32 59 9

g.
Immigrants today
strengthen our country
because of their hard work
and talents
Immigrants today are a
burden on our country
because they take our
jobs, housing and health
care
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 57 35 8
Dec 3-8, 2013 53 35 11
Oct 30-Nov 6, 2013 49 49 11
Mar 13-17, 2013 49 49 10
Jan 4-8, 2012 48 48 15
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 45 45 12
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 (RVs) 44 44 14
Jul 21-Aug 5, 2010 42 42 13
Jun 16-20, 2010 39 39 11
Oct 28-Nov 30, 2009 46 46 14
October, 2006 41 41 18
March, 2006 41 41 7
December, 2005 45 44 11
December, 2004 45 44 11
June, 2003 46 44 10
September, 2000 50 38 12
August, 1999 46 44 10
October, 1997 41 48 11
June, 1997 41 48 11
April, 1997 38 52 10
June, 1996 37 54 9
July, 1994 31 63 6

h.
Society is better off if
people make marriage and
having children a priority
Society is just as well off if
people have priorities
other than marriage and
children
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 46 50 5

i.
The best way to ensure
peace is through military
strength
Good diplomacy is the
best way to ensure peace
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 30 62 8
Dec 3-8, 2013 31 57 12
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 31 58 11
October, 2006 28 57 15
December, 2004 30 55 15
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Q.25 CONTINUED

The best way to ensure
peace is through military
strength
Good diplomacy is the
best way to ensure peace
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
August, 1999 33 55 12
October, 1996 36 53 11
October, 1995 36 59 5
April, 1995 35 58 7
October, 1994 40 52 8
July, 1994 36 58 6

j.
U.S. efforts to solve
problems around the
world usually end up
making things worse
Problems in the world
would be even worse
without U.S. involvement
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 40 53 7

k.
Most people who want to
get ahead can make it if
they're willing to work
hard
Hard work and
determination are no
guarantee of success
for most people
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 65 32 3
Jan 15-19, 2014 (U) 60 38 3
Dec 7-11, 2011 58 40 3
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 (RVs) 64 33 3
March, 2006 64 33 3
December, 2005 64 33 3
December, 2004 68 28 4
September, 2000 73 24 3
August, 1999 74 23 3
July, 1994 68 30 2

l.
Success in life is pretty
much determined by
forces outside of our
control
Everyone has it in their
own power to succeed
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 16 80 4
Dec 3-8, 2013 18 76 7
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 19 75 5
Oct 28-Nov 30, 2009 12 82 6
December, 2004 16 78 6
August, 1999 15 80 5
July, 1994 18 79 3

m.
Too much power is
concentrated in the hands
of a few large companies
The largest companies do
NOT have too much power
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 78 18 4
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 78 16 6
October, 2008 78 15 7
December, 2004 77 16 7
July, 2002 80 12 8
February, 2002 77 17 6
August, 1999 77 17 6
October, 1996 75 18 7
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Q.25 CONTINUED

Too much power is
concentrated in the hands
of a few large companies
The largest companies do
NOT have too much power
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
October, 1995 77 18 5
April, 1995 75 20 5
October, 1994 73 20 7
July, 1994 76 19 5

n.
Business corporations
make too much profit
Most corporations make a
fair and reasonable
amount of profit
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 56 39 4
Mar 13-17, 2013 53 41 6
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 54 39 7
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 (RVs) 54 39 6
December, 2008 58 35 7
October, 2008 59 33 8
December, 2005 61 33 6
December, 2004 53 39 8
June, 2003 51 42 7
July, 2002 58 33 9
February, 2002 54 39 7
September, 2000 54 38 8
August, 1999 52 42 6
June, 1997 51 43 6
October, 1996 51 42 7
October, 1995 53 43 4
April, 1995 51 44 5
October, 1994 50 44 6
July, 1994 52 43 5
ASK ALL PHASE B:

o.
Elected officials in
Washington lose touch
with the people pretty
quickly
Elected officials in
Washington try hard to
stay in touch with voters
back home
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 79 17 4
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 72 22 5
December, 2004 66 26 8
September, 2000 66 27 7
August, 1999 68 26 6
October, 1996 69 25 6
April, 1996 72 23 5
October, 1995 73 24 3
April, 1995 76 21 3
October, 1994 74 22 4
July, 1994 71 25 4
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Q.25 CONTINUED

ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B26 And in your view, has this country been successful more because of its [INSERT ITEM;
RANDOMIZE] or more because of its [ITEM]?

Feb 12-26
2014
51 Ability to change
44 Reliance on long-standing principles
5 Don't know/Refused (VOL.)

ASK ALL PHASE C:
Q.C26 Next, [READ AND RANDOMIZE]

Americans are united and Americans are greatly divided
in agreement about the when it comes to the (VOL.)
most important values most important values DK/Ref
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 26 71 3
Gallup/USA Today: Nov 9-12, 2012 29 69 2
CNN/ORC: Aug 24-25, 2011 27 73 1
Gallup/CNN/USA Today: November, 2004 34 65 1
Gallup/CNN/USA Today: January, 2004 45 53 2
Gallup/CNN/USA Today: September, 2002 69 30 1
Gallup/CNN/USA Today: November, 2001 74 24 2
WaPo: December, 1998 34 62 4
WaPo/KFF/Harvard: August, 1998 31 66 3
General Social Survey: 1993
5
32 63 5

5
1993 General Social Survey asked: There is a lot of discussion today about whether Americans are divided or united.
Some say that Americans are united and in agreement about the most important values. Others think that Americans are
greatly divided when it comes to the most important values. What is your view about this? Response options were not
randomized.
ASK ALL PHASE C:

p.
Most elected officials care
what people like me think
Most elected officials don't
care what people like me
think
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 20 78 2
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 26 69 5
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 (RVs) 29 68 4
December, 2004 32 63 5
June, 2003 33 62 5
September, 2000 39 55 6
August, 1999 35 60 5
June, 1997 28 67 5
October, 1996 38 58 4
October, 1995 33 64 3
April, 1995 32 64 4
October, 1994 29 68 3
July, 1994 34 64 2
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ASK ALL:
OFTVOTE How often would you say you vote...[READ IN ORDER]?

BASED ON REGISTERED VOTERS [N=7,999]:

Always
Nearly
always
Part
of the
time Seldom
(VOL.)
Never
vote
(VOL.)
Other
(VOL.)
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 61 24 8 5 1 * *
Oct 31-Nov 3, 2012 62 23 7 5 2 1 *
Oct 24-28, 2012 59 24 8 5 3 1 *
Oct 4-7, 2012 67 20 6 4 1 1 0
Sep 12-16, 2012 64 22 7 4 2 1 *
Jun 7-17, 2012 64 24 6 4 1 * *
Apr 4-15, 2012 57 29 8 4 1 * *
Jan 4-8, 2012 60 24 8 6 1 1 *
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 62 24 8 4 1 * *
Oct 27-30, 2010 58 24 11 5 2 1 *
Oct 13-18, 2010 57 27 10 4 2 1 *
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 59 26 9 4 1 * *
June 16-20, 2010 52 31 11 5 1 1 1
Mar 31-Apr 6, 2009 62 23 7 5 1 1 1
November, 2008 60 23 8 5 2 2 *
Late October, 2008 57 26 8 5 3 1 *
Mid-October, 2008 57 27 7 5 3 1 *
Early October, 2008 53 27 9 6 3 1 1
Late September, 2008 55 27 9 6 2 1 *
Mid-September, 2008 54 28 10 5 2 1 *
August, 2008 55 29 9 4 2 1 *
July, 2008 53 30 10 4 1 1 1
January, 2007 58 29 9 3 1 * *
November, 2006 58 26 8 5 2 1 *
Late October, 2006 58 27 9 4 1 1 *
Early October, 2006 47 36 10 3 2 1 1
September, 2006 56 28 9 6 1 * *
May, 2006 60 26 8 4 1 * 1
December, 2005 60 24 9 4 2 1 1
December, 2004 64 22 8 4 1 * 1
November, 2004 62 21 7 6 3 1 *
Mid-October, 2004 63 22 7 5 2 1 *
Early October, 2004 58 25 9 4 2 1 1
September, 2004 58 27 9 5 2 1 1
August, 2004 56 28 9 5 2 * 1
July, 2004 54 31 9 4 1 * *
June, 2004 57 29 7 5 1 1 1
May, 2004 56 27 10 4 2 1 1
April, 2004 55 29 9 5 1 1 1
Late March, 2004 50 31 11 6 1 * 1
Mid-March, 2004 55 30 9 5 1 * *
February, 2004 55 29 12 3 * * *
January, 2004 54 30 10 4 2 1 *
August, 2003 53 30 10 5 1 * *
June, 2003 48 36 11 3 1 * 0
Early November, 2002 52 30 11 6 1 0 1
Early October, 2002 50 33 11 4 * 1 1
Early September, 2002 59 25 11 4 1 * *
August, 2002 53 32 10 4 1 * *
May, 2002 53 31 9 5 1 * 1
Early November, 2000 57 26 8 6 2 1 *
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OFTVOTE CONTINUED

Always
Nearly
always
Part
of the
time Seldom
(VOL.)
Never
vote
(VOL.)
Other
(VOL.)
DK/Ref
Late October, 2000 52 30 9 6 1 2 0
Mid-October, 2000 54 27 10 6 * 3 *
Early October, 2000 51 29 10 6 3 1 *
September, 2000 61 21 9 7 2 * *
July, 2000 48 30 13 6 2 1 *
June, 2000 58 26 10 4 1 1 *
May, 2000 52 29 12 6 1 1 *
April, 2000 50 30 12 6 2 1 *
March, 2000 49 34 12 4 1 1 0
February, 2000 53 32 10 4 1 0 *
January, 2000 50 34 12 4 1 * *
October, 1999 39 47 9 2 1 * *
Late September, 1999 40 47 9 3 1 * *
Late October, 1998 56 28 10 5 1 * *
Early October, 1998 50 32 11 5 1 1 *
Early September, 1998 53 33 9 4 - 1 *
Late August, 1998 48 35 13 4 * 0 *
June, 1998 49 33 12 5 - 1 0
May, 1998 52 29 12 6 1 1 *
November, 1997 42 44 10 3 1 * *
October, 1997 62 26 8 3 1 * *
June, 1997 54 30 10 4 1 * *
November, 1996 55 28 8 6 2 1 *
October, 1996 52 30 9 5 2 2 *
Late September, 1996 52 31 10 4 2 1 *
Early September, 1996 53 29 12 4 1 * *
July, 1996 52 33 8 5 1 1 *
June, 1996 52 33 9 4 1 1 *
Late April, 1996 44 37 11 5 1 1 1
Early April, 1996 49 35 10 5 1 * *
February, 1996 42 41 11 4 1 1 *
October, 1995 53 35 7 4 1 * *
April, 1995 53 34 9 4 * * *
November, 1994 58 28 8 5 * 1 0
Late October, 1994 55 32 10 3 * * *
July, 1994 52 34 10 4 * * *
May, 1993 57 31 7 4 1 1 *
Early October, 1992 54 33 8 4 * 1 *
September, 1992 52 33 8 5 1 1 *
June, 1992 60 29 7 3 1 * *
May, 1992 50 35 10 4 1 * *
Early May, 1992 49 35 10 4 1 * *
March, 1992 47 36 11 6 * * *
February, 1992 50 36 9 4 * -- 2
January 1992 (GP)
6
40 35 11 11 4 -- *
November, 1991 46 41 9 4 * * *
May, 1990 42 42 11 4 1 * *
January, 1989 (GP) 45 30 10 8 6 1 *
Gallup: November, 1988 57 26 10 4 2 1 *
October, 1988 51 37 8 3 1 * *
May, 1988 43 41 11 3 2 1 *
January, 1988 49 39 9 2 1 * *

6
Trends for January, 1992 and January, 1989 are based on general public.
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OFTVOTE CONTINUED

Always
Nearly
always
Part
of the
time Seldom
(VOL.)
Never
vote
(VOL.)
Other
(VOL.)
DK/Ref
September, 1988 51 40 6 2 * 1 *
May, 1987 43 43 9 3 1 1 *

Q.26 PREVIOUSLY RELEASED

ASK ALL PHASE B:
Thinking about the next congressional elections that will be coming up about a year from now
Q.B27 If the elections for U.S. Congress were being held TODAY, would you vote for the Republican Partys
candidate or the Democratic Partys candidate for Congress in your district?
ASK IF OTHER DONT KNOW/REFUSED (Q.B27=3,9):
Q.B27a As of TODAY, would you LEAN more to the Republican or the Democrat?

BASED ON REGISTERED VOTERS [N=2,681]:

(VOL.)
Rep/ Dem/ Other/
Lean Rep Lean Dem DK/Ref
2014 Election
Feb 12-26, 2014 44 46 10
Dec 3-8, 2013 (U) 44 48 8
Oct 9-13, 2013 43 49 8
2012 Election
Jun 7-17, 2012 43 47 10
Aug 17-21, 2011 44 48 8
2010 Election
Oct 27-30, 2010 43 44 12
Oct 13-18, 2010 46 42 12
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 44 47 9
Jul 21-Aug 5, 2010 44 45 11
Jun 16-20, 2010 45 45 10
Mar 11-21, 2010 44 44 12
Feb 3-9, 2010 42 45 13
Jan 6-10, 2010 44 46 10
Oct 28-Nov 8, 2009 42 47 11
Aug 20-27, 2009 44 45 10
2008 Election
June, 2008 37 52 11
2006 Election
November, 2006 40 48 12
Late October, 2006 38 49 13
September, 2006 39 50 11
August, 2006 41 50 9
June, 2006 39 51 10
April, 2006 41 51 8
February, 2006 41 50 9
Mid-September, 2005 40 52 8
2004 Election
June, 2004 41 48 11
2002 Election
Early November, 2002 42 46 12
June, 2002 44 46 10
February, 2002 46 45 9

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Q.B27/B27a CONTINUED
(VOL.)
Rep/ Dem/ Other/
Lean Rep Lean Dem DK/Ref
2000 Election
July, 2000 43 47 10
February, 2000 44 47 9
October, 1999 43 49 8
June, 1999 40 50 10
1998 Election
Late August, 1998 44 45 11
Early August, 1998 42 49 9
June, 1998 44 46 10
March, 1998 40 52 8
February, 1998 41 50 9
January, 1998 41 51 8
August, 1997 45 48 7
1996 Election
November, 1996 41 48 11
October, 1996 42 49 9
Late September, 1996 43 49 8
July, 1996 46 47 7
June, 1996 44 50 6
March, 1996 44 49 7
January, 1996 46 47 7
October, 1995 48 48 4
August, 1995 50 43 7
1994 Election
November, 1994 45 43 12
September, 1994 48 46 6
July, 1994 45 47 8

QUESTIONS C28, A29 PREVIOUSLY RELEASED
NO QUESTIONS 30-39

ASK ALL:
Q.40 Would you say you follow what's going on in government and public affairs...[READ]?

Most of Some of Only now Hardly (VOL.)
the time the time and then at all DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 48 29 14 9 *
Oct 31-Nov 3, 2012 (RVs) 69 21 7 3 *
Oct 24-28, 2012 51 27 13 9 1
Oct 4-7, 2012 (RVs) 65 23 8 4 *
Sep 12-16, 2012 (RVs) 60 26 10 4 *
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 47 28 15 8 1
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 50 29 14 6 1
Oct 27-30, 2010 (RVs) 56 29 10 5 *
Oct 13-18, 2010 49 28 12 10 1
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010
7
52 25 13 10 1

7
In the Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 survey, a wording experiment was conducted with one half of respondents asked the question
wording shown above, and the other half was asked: Some people seem to follow whats going on in government and
public affairs most of the time, whether theres an election or not. Others arent that interested. Would you say you follow
147
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Q.40 CONTINUED
Most of Some of Only now Hardly (VOL.)
the time the time and then at all DK/Ref
January, 2007 53 28 11 7 1
November, 2006 (RVs) 58 26 10 6 *
Late October, 2006 (RVs) 57 30 8 5 *
December, 2005 50 28 14 8 *
December, 2004 45 35 14 5 1
November, 2004 (RVs) 61 27 9 3 *
Mid-October, 2004 (RVs) 63 26 8 3 *
June, 2004 44 34 15 7 *
August, 2003 48 33 12 6 1
November, 2002 49 27 14 9 1
August, 2002 54 30 11 5 *
March, 2001 49 27 13 10 1
Early November, 2000 (RVs) 51 32 12 5 *
September, 2000 (RVs) 51 34 10 4 1
June, 2000 38 32 19 11 *
Late September, 1999 39 32 20 9 *
August, 1999 40 35 17 8 *
November, 1998 46 27 14 13 *
Late October, 1998 (RVs) 57 29 10 4 *
Early October, 1998 (RVs) 51 33 11 5 *
Early September, 1998 45 34 15 6 *
June, 1998 36 34 21 9 *
November, 1997 41 36 16 7 *
November, 1996 (RVs) 52 32 12 4 *
October, 1996 (RVs) 43 37 13 6 1
June, 1996 41 34 17 8 *
October, 1995 46 35 14 5 *
April, 1995 43 35 16 6 *
November, 1994 49 30 13 7 1
October, 1994 45 35 14 6 *
July, 1994 46 33 15 6 *
May, 1990 39 34 18 9 *
February, 1989 47 34 14 4 1
October, 1988 (RVs) 52 33 12 3 *
May, 1988 37 37 17 6 3
January, 1988 37 35 18 8 2
November, 1987 49 32 14 4 1
May, 1987 41 35 15 7 2
July, 1985 36 33 18 12 1

ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B40a Some people say they are basically content with the federal government, others say they are
frustrated, and others say they are angry. Which of these best describes how you feel?

Basically (VOL.)
content Frustrated Angry DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 17 62 19 2
Oct 9-13, 2013 12 55 30 3
Sep 25-29, 2013 17 51 26 5
Jan 9-13, 2013 20 58 19 3
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 17 58 21 3
Aug 17-21, 2011 11 60 26 3
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 22 59 14 5
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 21 52 23 4
Apr 1-5, 2010 23 52 21 4

whats going on in government and public affairs No significant differences were found between questions and the
combined results are shown above. All surveys prior to Sep 2010 used the longer question wording.
148
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Q.B40a CONTINUED
Basically (VOL.)
content Frustrated Angry DK/Ref
Mar 11-21, 2010 19 56 21 5
Early January, 2007 21 58 16 5
Early October, 2006 21 54 20 5
March, 2004 32 52 13 3
Mid November, 2001 53 34 8 5
June, 2000 28 53 13 6
February, 2000 33 54 10 3
October, 1997 29 56 12 3

ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.40b How much of the time do you think you can trust the government in Washington to do what is
right? Just about always, most of the time, or only some of the time?

Just about Most of Only some (VOL.) (VOL.)
always the time of the time Never DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 3 21 68 7 1
Oct 9-13, 2013 3 16 68 12 1
Jan 9-13, 2013 3 23 67 6 2
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 3 17 72 7 2
Aug 17-21, 2011 3 16 72 8 1
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 4 25 65 4 2
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 3 21 65 10 1
Apr 1-5, 2010 5 20 61 13 1
Mar 11-21, 2010 3 19 65 11 2
January, 2007 3 28 63 5 1
February, 2006 4 30 59 6 1
Mid-September, 2005 3 28 63 4 2
Mid-March, 2004 4 32 59 4 1
February, 2000 5 35 56 3 1
May, 1999 3 28 62 5 2
February, 1999 4 27 64 4 1
November, 1998
8
4 22 61 11 2
February, 1998 5 29 61 4 1
October, 1997 3 36 59 2 *

ASK ALL:
Just as far as you know
Q.41 Which political party has a majority in the U.S. House of Representatives [READ AND
RANDOMIZE]? [IF NECESSARY: Just as far as you know] [INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: DO
NOT PROBE, PUNCH 9 IF RESPONDENT SAYS THEY DONT KNOW]

The Republican
Party
The Democratic
Party
(VOL.)
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 58 30 12
May 9-Jun 3, 2012
9
54 22 24
Jun 8-28, 2010 12 70 19
Oct 1-4, 2009 13 75 12
Jun 18-21, 2009 12 76 12
Mar 26-29, 2009 12 86 2
Dec 4-7, 2008 11 82 7
Feb 28-Mar 2, 2008 26 70 4
Aug 16-19, 2007 19 78 3
February, 2007 10 76 14

8
The November, 1998 survey was conducted Oct. 26-Dec. 1, 1998. The question asked, How much of the time do you
trust the government in Washington to do the right thing? Just about always, most the time, or only some of the time?
9
In June 2012 and earlier, question read: Do you happen to know which political party has a majority in the U.S. House
of Representatives? [RANDOMIZE: Democrats or Republicans]
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Q.41 TREND FOR COMPARISON
10
:
The Republican
Party
The Democratic
Party
(VOL.)
DK/Ref
May, 2008 15 53 32
April, 2006 64 6 30
April, 2004 56 8 36
June, 2001 31 34 35
August, 1999 55 8 37
December, 1998 56 11 33
June, 1997 50 6 44
April, 1996 70 8 22
June, 1995 73 5 22
July, 1994 18 60 22
February, 1994 42 58 n/a
September, 1992 9 46 45
June, 1992 12 44 44
May, 1992 12 49 39
May, 1989 16 68 16

Correct answers in bold.

ASK ALL:
Q.42 Which political party has a majority in the U.S. Senate [READ AND RANDOMIZE]?
[INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: DO NOT PROBE, PUNCH 9 IF RESPONDENT SAYS THEY
DONT KNOW]

The Republican
Party
The Democratic
Party
(VOL.)
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 30 54 16
TREND FOR COMPARISON
11
:
June, 2003 63 10 27
June, 2001 12 56 32
September, 1992 10 57 33
June, 1992 17 52 31
May, 1992 17 55 28

Correct answers in bold.

ASK ALL PHASE A:
Q.43 Which political party is more in favor of raising taxes on higher income people [READ AND
RANDOMIZE]? [IF NECESSARY: Just as far as you know] [INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: DO
NOT PROBE, PUNCH 9 IF RESPONDENT SAYS THEY DONT KNOW]

Jan 23-Feb 9
2014
21 The Republican Party [OR]
70 The Democratic Party

NO QUESTIONS 44-47

10
In May 2008 and from May 1992 through Late October 2006, this was asked as an open-ended question, without offering
response options. In May 1989 the question was worded: As a result of the election last year, which party now has the
most members in the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington?
11
In June 2003 and earlier, question read: Do you happen to know which political party has a majority in the U.S.
Senate? The question was asked as an open-ended question, without offering response options.
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RANDOMIZE Q.C48/Q.C49
ASK ALL PHASE C:
Now some questions about your views of the political parties
Q.C48 Do you think the Republican Party [INSERT ITEM; RANDOMIZE] or not?

(VOL.)
Yes No DK/Ref
a. Is too extreme
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 52 43 5
Jul 17-21, 2013 48 46 6
Feb 13-18, 2013 52 42 5
Please tell me whether you think each of the
following description applies or does not apply to
the Republican Party too extreme
CNN/Gallup: February, 1999 56 42 3

b. Cares about the middle class
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 42 54 4

c. Is too willing to cut government programs, even when
they work
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 57 35 8

RANDOMIZE Q.C48/Q.C49
ASK ALL PHASE C:
[Next,]
Q.C49 Do you think the Democratic Party [INSERT ITEM; RANDOMIZE] or not?

(VOL.)
Yes No DK/Ref

a. Is too extreme
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 39 56 5
Jul 17-21, 2013 41 54 5
Feb 13-18, 2013 39 56 6
Please tell me whether you think each of the
following descriptions applies or does not apply to
the Democratic Party too extreme
CNN/Gallup: February, 1999 39 57 3

b. Cares about the middle class
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 57 38 4

c. Too often sees government as the only way to solve
problems
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 59 35 6

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ASK ALL:
Q.50 Now I'm going to read a few more pairs of statements. Again, just tell me whether the FIRST
statement or the SECOND statement comes closer to your own views even if neither is exactly
right. The first pair is [READ AND RANDOMIZE ITEMS Q THRU Z FOLLOWED BY
RANDOMIZED ITEMS AA THRU HH; RANDOMIZE PAIRS BUT NOT STATEMENTS WITHIN
EACH PAIR]. Next, [NEXT PAIR] [IF NECESSARY: Which statement comes closer to your
views, even if neither is exactly right?]

q.
This country should do
whatever it takes to
protect the environment
This country has gone too
far in its efforts to protect
the environment
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 71 25 4
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 71 24 5
December, 2004 77 18 5
September, 2000 78 17 5
August, 1999 80 15 5
October, 1996 77 18 5
October, 1995 77 20 3
April, 1995 74 22 4
October, 1994 77 19 4
July, 1994 78 19 3

r.
laws and regulations cost
too many jobs and hurt
the economy
laws and regulations are
worth the cost
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 39 56 5
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 39 53 7
November, 2007 27 63 10
July, 2006 31 57 12
March, 2006 29 65 6
December, 2005 37 56 7
December, 2004 31 60 9
September, 2000 31 61 8
August, 1999 28 65 7
October, 1996 30 63 7
October, 1995 35 61 4
April, 1995 39 57 4
October, 1994 32 62 6
July, 1994 33 62 5
ASK ALL PHASE B:
s.
There are no real limits to
growth in this country
today
People in this country
should learn to live with
less
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 49 46 5
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 39 52 9
December, 2008 40 53 7
October, 2008 41 49 10
December, 2004 51 41 8
August, 1999 54 40 6
July, 1994 51 45 4
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Q.50 CONTINUED

12
In October, 2006 and earlier, both answer choices began: Homosexuality is a way of life that should be
ASK ALL PHASE C:
t.
As Americans, we can
always find ways to solve
our problems and get
what we want
This country can't solve
many of its important
problems
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Feb 27-Mar 16 2014 47 50 3
Dec 7-11, 2011 60 36 3
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 57 37 6
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 (RVs) 54 42 5
December, 2008 68 27 5
October, 2008 64 29 7
December, 2004 59 36 5
September, 2000 59 36 5
August, 1999 63 32 5
July, 1994 52 45 3
ASK ALL:

u.
accepted by society
discouraged by society

(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 62 31 7
May 1-5, 2013 60 31 8
Mar 13-17, 2013 57 36 7
Jan 4-8, 2012 56 32 12
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 58 33 8
October, 2006
12
51 38 11
December, 2004 49 44 7
June, 2003 47 45 8
September, 2000 50 41 9
August, 1999 49 44 7
October, 1997 46 48 6
June, 1997 45 50 5
October, 1996 44 49 7
April, 1996 44 49 7
October, 1995 45 50 5
April, 1995 47 48 5
October, 1994 46 48 6
July, 1994 46 49 5
ASK ALL PHASE C:
v.
Its not the governments
job to protect people from
themselves
Sometimes laws to protect
people from themselves
are necessary
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Feb 27-Mar 16 2014 34 62 4
ASK ALL PHASE A:

w.
Religion is a very
important part of my life
Religion is not that
important to me
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Feb 9, 2014 66 33 1
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 71 27 2
December, 2004 74 24 2
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NO ITEM x

NO ITEM cc

Q.50 CONTINUED

Religion is a very
important part of my life
Religion is not that
important to me
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
September, 2000 75 23 2
August, 1999 75 22 2
ASK ALL:

y.

I'm generally satisfied
with the way things are
going for me financially
I'm not very satisfied with
my financial situation
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 51 47 1
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 47 51 2
October, 2006 59 40 1
December, 2005 56 42 2
December, 2004 59 39 2
September, 2000 59 39 2
August, 1999 64 34 2
October, 1996 57 41 2
April, 1996 57 42 1
July, 1994 56 43 1

z.
I often don't have enough
money to make ends meet
Paying the bills is
generally not a problem
for me
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 40 58 2
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 43 54 3
December, 2005 40 56 4
December, 2004 35 62 3
September, 2000 37 59 4
August, 1999 29 68 3
July, 1994 36 63 1

aa.
It IS NOT necessary to
believe in God in order to
be moral and have good
values
It IS necessary to believe
in God in order to be
moral and have good
values
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 53 45 2
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 49 48 3
December, 2004 46 51 3
March, 2002 50 47 3

bb.
Using overwhelming
military force is the best
way to defeat terrorism
around the world
Relying too much on
military force to defeat
terrorism creates hatred
that leads to more
terrorism
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 37 57 7
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 38 52 10
December, 2004 39 51 10
154
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Q.50 CONTINUED

13
Item was asked Jan. 29-Mar 16, 2014 (N=9,459).
14
In December 2004, both answer choices read to give up more privacy and freedom.

dd.
The growing number of
newcomers from other
countries threatens
traditional American
customs and values
The growing number of
newcomers from other
countries strengthens
American society
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 35 59 6
Mar 13-17, 2013 43 52 6
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 39 52 9
Jul 21-Aug 5, 2010 38 49 13
Jun 16-20, 2010 44 44 12
November, 2007 50 40 10
March, 2006 48 45 7
December, 2004 40 50 10

ee.
Its best for the future of
our country to be active in
world affairs
We should pay less
attention to problems
overseas and concentrate
on problems here at home
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 35 60 5
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 33 58 8
December, 2004 44 49 7

ff.
Americans need to be
willing to give up privacy
and freedom in order to
be safe from terrorism
Americans shouldnt have
to give up privacy and
freedom in order to be
safe from terrorism
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 29-Mar 16, 2014
13
22 74 4
Jan 15-19, 2014 (U) 26 70 4
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 26 68 6
December, 2004
14
35 60 5
ASK ALL PHASE B:
gg.
The government should do
more to protect morality
in society
I worry the government is
getting too involved in the
issue of morality
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 33 62 5
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 35 54 10
December, 2004 41 51 8
ASK ALL:

hh.
Our country has made the
changes needed to give
blacks equal rights with
whites
Our country needs to
continue making changes
to give blacks equal rights
with whites
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 49 46 5
Feb 22-Mar 14, 2011 49 45 6
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 (RVs) 48 45 8
Oct 28-Nov 30, 2009 47 43 10
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ASK ALL:
Q.51 Next, [ASK ITEM ii FIRST, FOLLOWED BY RANDOMIZED ITEMS jj THROUGH mm AND
RANDOMIZE STATEMENTS WITHIN PAIRS]. [IF NECESSARY: Which statement comes closer
to your views, even if neither is exactly right?] Next, [NEXT PAIR]

NO ITEM nn

15
Item was asked Jan. 29-Feb.9, 2014 (N=2,787).
16
In January 2014 and earlier, response items were not randomized.
17
In January 2013, question asked as a stand-alone item.
ASK ALL PHASE A:

ii.
Government should do
more to solve problems
Government is doing too
many things better left to
businesses and individuals
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Feb 9, 2014 45 51 4
Sep 12-16, 2012 44 49 6
Nov 4-7, 2010 43 48 9
Jun 8-28, 2010 43 47 10
Jan 14-27, 2010 (SDT) 45 47 8

jj.
Children are better off
when a parent stays home
to focus on the family
Children are just as well
off when their parents
work outside the home
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Feb 9, 2014 60 35 5
ASK ALL:
kk.
Government aid to the
poor does more harm than
good, by making people
too dependent on
government assistance
Government aid to the
poor does more good than
harm, because people
cant get out of poverty
until their basic needs are
met
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 48 47 6
Jan 15-19, 2014 (U) 44 49 7
ASK ALL PHASE A:

ll.
The economic system in
this country unfairly
favors powerful interests
The economic system in
this country is generally
fair to most Americans
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 29-Feb 9, 2014
15
62 34 4

mm.
I like elected officials who
make compromises with
people they disagree with
I like elected officials who
stick to their positions
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Jan 23-Feb 9, 2014 56 39 5
Jan 15-19, 2014
16
49 48 3
Jan 9-13, 2013
17
50 44 6
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 40 54 7
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 (RVs) 40 55 5
156
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Q.51 CONTINUED

NO QUESTION 52

ASK ALL PHASE A:
Q.53 In your opinion, which is generally more often to blame if a person is poor? Lack of effort on his or
her own part, or circumstances beyond his or her control?

Lack of Circumstances (VOL.) (VOL.)
effort beyond control Both DK/Ref
Jan 23-Feb 9, 2014 39 50 8 3
Jan 15-19, 2014 (U) 35 50 11 4
Apr 4-15, 2012 38 46 11 5
Mar 11-21, 2010 32 49 14 5
October, 1997 39 44 14 3
CBS/NYT: 1995 35 42 18 4
CBS/NYT: 1994 44 34 18 4
LAT: 1992 27 52 18 3
NYT: December, 1990 30 48 20 2
Gallup: May, 1990 35 45 17 3
Gallup: 1989 38 42 17 3
Gallup: 1988 40 37 17 6
Gallup: 1984 33 34 31 2
CBS/NYT: 1982 37 39 17 7
Gallup: 1967 42 19 36 3
Gallup: 1965 40 29 28 3
Gallup: November, 1964 31 31 34 5
Gallup: September, 1964 34 25 38 3
Gallup: March, 1964 34 29 32 6

ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B54 Next, [IF NECESSARY: Which comes closer to your own views even if neither is exactly right].
[READ DO NOT RANDOMIZE STATEMENTS]

18
In January 2012 and earlier, response items were not randomized.
ASK ALL PHASE C:

oo.
The police should be
allowed to stop and search
anyone who fits the
general description of a
crime suspect
The police should not be
able to search people just
because they think they
look suspicious
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 41 56 3

pp.
Wall Street HELPS the
American economy more
than it hurts
Wall Street HURTS the
American economy more
than it helps
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 45 42 13
Jan 4-8, 2012
18
36 48 16
Dec 7-11, 2011 36 51 13
Mar 8-14, 2011 38 47 15
The Islamic religion is
more likely than others to
encourage violence among
its believers
The Islamic religion does
not encourage violence
more than others
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 38 50 12
May 1-5, 2013 42 46 13
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 40 42 18
Aug 19-22, 2010 35 42 24
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ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B55 Should the U.S. Supreme Court base its rulings on its understanding of what the U.S. Constitution
meant as it was originally written, or should the court base its rulings on its understanding of what
the US Constitution means in current times?

(VOL.)
What it meant What it means Somewhere (VOL.)
as originally written in current times in between DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 46 49 2 3
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 45 50 2 4
Kaiser/Harvard/WaPo: October, 2010 50 46 1 3
ABC News/WaPo: July, 2005 46 50 3 1

ASK ALL PHASE C:
Q.C56 Which of these statements best describes your opinion about the United States? [READ IN ORDER;
REVERSE ORDER FOR HALF OF SAMPLE]

Feb 27-Mar 16 Mar 8-14
2014 2011
28 The U.S. stands above all other countries in the world. 38
58 The U.S. is one of the greatest countries in the world, along with some others 53
12 There are other countries that are better than the U.S. 8

ASK ALL PHASE C:
Q.C57 From what youve read and heard, is there solid evidence that the average temperature on earth
has been getting warmer over the past few decades, or not?
ASK IF EARTH IS GETTING WARMER (Q.C57=1):
Q.C58a Do you believe that the earth is getting warmer [READ AND RANDOMIZE]?

---------------------Yes, solid evidence--------------------- (VOL.)
Mostly because of Mostly because of Mixed/
human activity such natural patterns in the (VOL.) some (VOL.)
Total as burning fossil fuels earths environment DK/Ref No evidence DK/Ref
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 61 40 18 3 35 1 3
Oct 9-13, 2013 67 44 18 4 26 2 5
Mar 13-17, 2013 69 42 23 4 27 1 4
Oct 4-7, 2012 67 42 19 6 26 1 6
Nov 9-14, 2011 63 38 18 6 28 1 8
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 58 36 18 5 34 2 5
Oct 13-18, 2010 59 34 18 6 32 1 8
Sep 30-Oct 4, 2009 57 36 16 6 33 2 8
April, 2008 71 47 18 6 21 3 5
January, 2007 77 47 20 10 16 1 6
August, 2006 77 47 20 10 17 1 5
July, 2006 79 50 23 6 17 1 3
June, 2006 70 41 21 8 20 1 9

Q.B54 CONTINUED

The Islamic religion is
more likely than others to
encourage violence among
its believers
The Islamic religion does
not encourage violence
more than others
(VOL.)
Both/Neither/
DK/Ref
Aug 11-17, 2009 38 45 16
August, 2007 45 39 16
July, 2005 36 47 17
July, 2004 46 37 17
Mid-July, 2003 44 41 15
March, 2002 25 51 24
158
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ASK ALL PHASE C:
Q.C57 From what youve read and heard, is there solid evidence that the average temperature on earth
has been getting warmer over the past few decades, or not?
ASK IF EARTH IS NOT GETTING WARMER (Q.C57=2):
Q.C58b Do you think that we just dont know enough yet about whether the Earth is getting warmer or do
you think its just not happening?

Feb 27-Mar 16 Oct 9-13
2014 2013
19

35 NET No solid evidence (Q.C57) 26
17 Just dont know enough yet 12
17 Just not happening 13
1 Don't know/Refused (VOL.) 1
65 Solid evidence/Mixed/some evidence/Dont know (Q.C57) 74

NO QUESTIONS 59-99

ASK ALL:
Q.100 Have you ever contributed money to a candidate running for public office or to a group working to
elect a candidate?
ASK IF HAVE EVER CONTRIBUTED MONEY (Q.100=1):
Q.101 Have you done this over the last two years, that is, during or since the 2012 elections, or not? [IF
NECESSARY: Have you contributed money to any candidates or political groups over the last two
years, or not?]

Jan 23-Mar 16 Jan 2-5
2014 2014
30 Yes, have ever contributed 24
15 Yes, in last two years 14
16 No, not in last two years 10
* Dont know/Refused (VOL.) *
69 No, have never contributed 75

ASK IF HAVE CONTRIBUTED MONEY DURING 2012/2013 (Q.101=1):
Q.102 Over the last two years, would you say all of those contributions added up to more than $100 or
less than that?
ASK IF MORE THAN $100 (Q.102=1):
Q.102a And did they add up to more than $250 or not?

BASED ON TOTAL:

Jan 23-Mar 16 Jan 2-5
2014 2014
8 More than $100 9
4 More than $250 --
4 Less than $250 --
* Dont know/Refused (VOL.) --
6 Less than $100 5
* Dont know/Refused (VOL.) *

Havent donated in last two years
85 (Q.100=2,9 OR Q,101=2,9) 86

NO QUESTIONS 103-104

19
Prior to October 2013, follow-up question was not asked of those who said there was no solid evidence.
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ASK ALL:
Q.105 [IF Q100=1: And again,] just thinking about the last two yearsPlease tell me if you have done
any of the following. First, over the last two years have you [INSERT ITEM; RANDOMIZE], or
not? And over the last two years have you [INSERT NEXT ITEM], or not?

Yes, have done this No, have not done this (VOL.)
within last two years within last two years DK/Ref

a. Worked or volunteered for a political
candidate or campaign
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 8 92 *

b. Contacted any elected official
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 28 72 *

NO ITEM c

d. Attended a campaign event
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 15 84 *

ASK ALL PHASE A:
Q.106 And have you, yourself, ever run for federal, state, or local elected office, or not?

Jan 23-Feb 9
2014
2 Yes, have run for elected office
98 No, have not run for elected office
* Don't know/Refused (VOL.)

ASK ALL PHASE B:
Next,
Q.B106 Do you favor or oppose legalized casino gambling in your state?

WP/Kaiser Family
Foundation/Harvard NBC/AP
Feb 12-26 Jul 29-Aug 18 Aug 7-8
2014 1998 1978
20

61 Favor 47 48
33 Oppose 48 47
6 Dont know/Refused (VOL.) 5 5

ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B107 Right now, which ONE of the following do you think should be the more important priority for
addressing Americas energy supply? [READ AND RANDOMIZE]?

20
In 1978, NBC News and the Associated Press asked Would you favor or oppose legalized casino gambling in your state?
Developing alternative
sources such as, wind,
solar and hydrogen
technology
Expanding
exploration and
production of oil,
coal and natural gas
(VOL.)
Both should be
given equal
priority
(VOL.)
DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 65 28 5 2
Sep 4-8, 2013 58 34 6 3
Feb 13-18, 2013 (U) 54 34 7 4
Oct 24-28, 2012 47 39 9 5
Mar 7-11, 2012 52 39 5 4
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 63 29 6 2
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ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B108 Do you strongly favor, favor, oppose, or strongly oppose allowing gays and lesbians to marry
legally?

----------Favor--------- ---------Oppose--------
Strongly Strongly (VOL.)
Total favor Favor Total oppose Oppose DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 54 24 30 39 19 20 7
May 1-5, 2013
21
51 21 30 42 19 22 8
Mar 13-17, 2013 49 22 27 44 22 21 8
Oct 24-28, 2012 49 22 27 40 19 21 11
Jun 28-Jul 9, 2012 48 23 25 44 24 20 8
Jun 7-17, 2012 48 23 25 44 23 21 9
Apr 4-15, 2012 47 22 25 43 22 21 11
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 46 -- -- 44 -- -- 9
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 45 20 25 46 25 21 9
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 43 16 27 47 26 22 10
Jul 21-Aug 5, 2010 41 17 24 48 24 24 10
Aug 11-17, 2009 39 14 25 53 31 22 8
Mid-April, 2009 35 14 21 54 31 23 11
August, 2008 39 13 26 52 30 22 9
June, 2008 40 15 25 52 31 21 8
Late May, 2008 38 15 23 49 29 20 13
November, 2007 36 12 24 54 29 25 10
August, 2007 36 13 23 55 31 24 9
Early January, 2007 37 13 24 55 33 22 8
Early November, 2006 (RVs) 30 10 20 57 31 26 13
July, 2006 35 12 23 56 31 25 9
June, 2006 33 13 20 55 32 23 12
March, 2006 39 10 29 51 28 23 10
July, 2005 36 13 23 53 31 22 11
December, 2004 32 14 18 61 38 23 7
August, 2004 29 8 21 60 35 25 11
July, 2004 32 10 22 56 33 23 12
Mid-March, 2004 32 10 22 59 35 24 9
Early February, 2004 30 9 21 63 42 21 7
November, 2003 30 10 20 62 41 21 8
October, 2003 30 9 21 58 33 25 12
Mid-July, 2003 38 10 28 53 30 23 9
March, 2001 35 8 27 57 34 23 8
June, 1996 27 6 21 65 41 24 8

ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B109 Thinking about our economic and trade policy toward China, which is more important [READ AND
RANDOMIZE]?

Feb 12-26 Oct 4-7 Mar 8-14
2014 2012 2011
51 Building a stronger relationship with China on economic issues 42 53
41 Getting tougher with China on economic issues 49 40

21
In May 1-5, 2013, Jun 28-Jul 9, 2012, Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011, July 21-Aug 5, 2010, Aug 11-17, 2009, August 2008, August
2007, Early January 2007, Early November 2006, March 2006, July 2005, December 2004, Early February 2004,
November 2003, Mid-July 2003, March 2001 and June 1996 the question was asked as part of a list of items. In Jun 7-17,
2012, Apr 4-15, 2012, August 2009, April 2009, May 2008 and June 2008, the question read allowing gay and lesbian
couples; all other instances read allowing gays and lesbians.
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ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B110 Do you think the use of marijuana should be made legal, or not?

(VOL.)
Yes, legal No, illegal DK/Ref
Feb 12-26, 2014 54 42 3
Mar 13-17, 2013 52 45 3
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 45 50 5
Mar 10-14, 2010 41 52 7
Gallup
October, 2012 48 50 1
October, 2011 50 46 3
October, 2010 46 50 4
October, 2009 44 54 2
October 2005 36 60 4
November, 2003 34 64 2
August, 2001 34 62 4
August, 2000 31 64 5
August, 1995 25 73 2
May, 1985 23 73 4
June, 1980 25 70 5
May, 1979 25 70 5
April, 1977 28 66 6
January, 1973 16 78 6
March, 1972 15 81 4
October, 1969 12 84 4
General Social Survey
2012 43 49 8
2010 44 47 9
2008 35 57 8
2006 32 60 7
2004 33 59 9
2002 32 61 6
2000 31 63 6
1998 27 67 6
1996 25 70 5
1994 22 73 5
1993 22 73 5
1991 17 78 5
1990 16 81 3
1989 16 81 3
1988 17 79 4
1987 16 81 3
1986 17 80 2
1984 22 74 4
1983 19 77 3
1980 24 73 3
1978 30 66 4
1976 28 69 3
1975 20 74 5
1973 19 79 2

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ASK ALL PHASE C:
Q.C111 How much, if anything, have you read or heard about COMMON CORE, a set of education standards
for students in grades K-12? Have you heard [READ]

Feb 27-Mar 16
2014
18 A lot
41 A little
40 Nothing at all

ASK IF HEARD OF COMMON CORE (Q.C111=1,2) [N=2,139]:
Q.C112 From what youve read and heard, do you strongly favor, favor, oppose or strongly oppose the
Common Core education standards?

Feb 27-Mar 16
2014
9 Strongly favor
37 Favor
24 Oppose
15 Strongly oppose


ASK ALL PHASE C:
Q.C115 In general, do you think that free trade agreements between the U.S. and other countries have
been a good thing or a bad thing for the United States?

Feb 27-Mar 16 Feb 22-Mar 1 Mar 31-Apr 21
2014 2011 2009
59 Good thing 48 52
30 Bad thing 41 34
10 Don't know/Refused (VOL.) 12 14

TREND FOR COMPARISON:
In general, do you think that free trade agreements like NAFTA and the policies of the World Trade
Organization have been a good thing or a bad thing for the United States?

(VOL.)
Good thing Bad thing DK/Ref
Nov 4-7, 2010 35 44 21
Oct 28-Nov 8, 2009 43 32 25
Mar 31-Apr 21, 2009 44 35 21
April, 2008 35 48 17
November, 2007 40 40 20
December, 2006
22
44 35 21
December, 2004 47 34 19
July, 2004 47 34 19
March, 2004 44 37 19
December, 2003 34 33 33
November, 1997 45 34 21
September, 1997 47 30 23

22
In December 2006, December 2004, July 2004 and March 2004, the question wording asked about: free trade
agreements like NAFTA and the World Trade Organization, and did not mention policies of the World Trade
Organization. In October 2005 the question asked: So far, do you think that NAFTA has been a good thing or a bad thing
from a U.S. point of view? In December 2003 the question wording asked about free trade agreements like NAFTA and
the WTO; full names of the organizations were read out only if the respondent was uncertain. In Early September 2001
and earlier the question asked about: NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement...
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ASK ALL PHASE C:
Q.C116 Do you approve or disapprove of the health care law passed by Barack Obama and Congress in
2010?
ASK IF APPROVE OR DISAPPROVE (Q.C116=1,2):
Q.C116a Do you [approve/disapprove] very strongly, or not so strongly?

Very Not so (VOL.) Dis- Very Not so (VOL.) (VOL.)
Approve strongly strongly DK/Ref approve strongly strongly DK/Ref DK/Ref
Feb 27-Mar 16, 2014 41 26 14 * 53 41 12 * 5
Dec 3-8, 2013 (U) 41 -- -- -- 54 -- -- -- 5
Oct 9-13, 2013 41 -- -- -- 52 -- -- -- 7
Sep 4-8, 2013 (U) 42 26 16 1 53 41 12 * 5
Jun 28-Jul 9, 2012
23
47 31 15 1 43 33 10 * 9
Jun 7-17, 2012 43 26 17 1 48 35 13 * 9
Apr 4-15, 2012 41 -- -- -- 49 -- -- -- 10
Mar 7-11, 2012 47 -- -- -- 45 -- -- -- 8
Jan 5-9, 2011 41 -- -- -- 48 -- -- -- 11
Nov 4-7, 2010 43 -- -- -- 47 -- -- -- 10
Sep 9-12, 2010 38 -- -- -- 45 -- -- -- 17
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 44 -- -- -- 46 -- -- -- 10
Jul 8-11, 2010 35 -- -- -- 47 -- -- -- 17
Apr 1-5, 2010 40 -- -- -- 44 -- -- -- 16

Q.C116/C116a TREND FOR COMPARISON:
As of right now, do you generally favor or generally oppose the health care bills being discussed in
Congress?
IF FAVOR OR OPPOSE: Do you (favor/oppose) these health care bills very strongly, or not so
strongly?

Generally Very Not so (VOL.) Generally Very Not so (VOL.) (VOL.)
favor strongly strongly DK/Ref oppose strongly strongly DK/Ref DK/Ref
Mar 11-21, 2010 40 -- -- -- 47 -- -- -- 13
Mar 10-14, 2010 38 -- -- -- 48 -- -- -- 13
Feb 3-9, 2010 38 -- -- -- 50 -- -- -- 12
Jan 6-10, 2010 39 23 14 2 48 36 11 1 13
Dec 9-13, 2009
24
35 -- -- -- 48 -- -- -- 17
Nov 12-15, 2009 42 -- -- -- 39 -- -- -- 19
Oct 28-Nov 8, 2009 38 -- -- -- 47 -- -- -- 15
Sep 30-Oct 4, 2009 34 20 13 1 47 35 11 1 19
Sep 10-15, 2009 42 29 11 2 44 34 10 * 14
Aug 20-27, 2009 39 25 13 1 46 34 12 1 15
Jul 22-26, 2009 38 -- -- -- 44 -- -- -- 18

23
Prior to September 2013, the question asked about the health care legislation. In addition, the reference to when the
law was passed has changed over time: January 2011 referenced the legislation passed last year, November 2010 used
earlier this year, September through July, 2010 used in March, and April 2010 used last month.
24
From December 9-13, 2009 and earlier, questions asked about health care proposals rather than health care bills.
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ASK IF DISAPPROVE (Q.C116=2):
Q.C117 What do you think elected officials who oppose the health care law should do now that the law has
started to take effect? Should they [READ AND RANDOMIZE] or should they [ITEM]?

BASED ON TOTAL PHASE C:

(U) (U)
Feb 27-Mar 16 Dec 3-8 Sep 4-8
2014 2013
25
2013
53 NET Disapprove of health care law (Q.C116) 54 53
30 Do what they can to make the law work as well as possible 29 27
19 Do what they can to make the law fail 19 23
47 Approve of health care law/ Dont know (Q.C116) 46 47


QUESTION 121/121a/121b PREVIOUSLY RELEASED

RANDOMIZE IN BLOCKS:
Q121/121a/b, Q122/122a/b, Q123/a/b, Q124/a/b, Q125/a/b, Q126/a/b
ASK ALL PHASE A:
Q.122 Which comes closer to your view about how to handle immigrants who are now living in the U.S.
illegally? Should they [READ AND RANDOMIZE]
ASK IF NOT ELIGIBLE FOR CITIZENSHIP (Q122=1):
Q.122a Do you think there should be a national law enforcement effort to deport all immigrants who are
now living in the U.S. illegally, or should that not be done?
ASK IF BE ELIGIBLE FOR CITIZENSHIP (Q122=2):
Q.122b And if immigrants meet these requirements, should they be eligible for citizenship? [READ AND
RANDOMIZE]

Jan 23-Feb 9
2014
23 Not be eligible for citizenship
17 Should be national law enforcement effort to deport
5 Should not be national law enforcement effort to deport
76 Be eligible for citizenship if they meet certain requirements
20 Right away
54 Only after a period of time

25
In December 2013 and September 2013, question was not asked immediately after Q.C116.
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ASK ALL PHASE A:
Q.123 What do you think is more important to protect the right of Americans to own guns, OR to control
gun ownership?
ASK IF MORE IMPORTANT TO PROTECT OWNERSHIP (Q123=1):
Q.123a And do you think there should be [READ AND RANDOMIZE]?
ASK IF MORE IMPORTANT TO CONTROL OWNERSHIP (Q123=2):
Q.123b And do you think [READ AND RANDOMIZE]?

Jan 23-Feb 9
2014
49 Protect the right of Americans to own guns
38 Some restrictions on gun ownership
11 No restrictions on gun ownership
48 Control gun ownership
35 Most Americans should be able to own guns with certain limits in place
12 Only law enforcement and security personnel should be able to own guns

Q.123 TREND:

Protect right of Americans Control (VOL.)
to own guns gun ownership DK/Ref
May 1-5, 2013 48 50 2
Feb 13-18, 2013 (U) 46 50 4
Jan 9-13, 2013 45 51 5
Dec 17-19, 2012 42 49 9
July 26-29, 2012 46 47 6
Apr 4-15, 2012 49 45 6
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 47 49 5
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 48 47 6
Jan 13-16, 2011 49 46 6
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 46 50 4
Mar 10-14, 2010 46 46 7
Mar 31-Apr 21, 2009 45 49 6
April, 2008 37 58 5
November, 2007 42 55 3
April, 2007 32 60 8
February, 2004 37 58 5
June, 2003 42 54 4
May, 2000 38 57 5
April, 2000 37 55 8
March, 2000 29 66 5
June, 1999 33 62 5
May, 1999 30 65 5
December, 1993 34 57 9

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ASK ALL PHASE A:
Q.124 Do you think abortion should be [READ AND RANDOMIZE]
ASK IF LEGAL IN ALL/MOST (Q124=1):
Q.124a Do you think there are any situations in which abortion should be restricted, or should there be no
restrictions at all on abortion?
ASK IF ILLEGAL IN ALL/MOST (Q124=2):
Q.124b Do you think there are any situations in which abortion should be allowed, or should there be no
situations at all where abortion is allowed?

Jan 23-Feb 9
2014
51 LEGAL in all or most cases
31 Situations in which abortion should be restricted
19 No restrictions at all on abortion
* Don't know/Refused (VOL.)
43 ILLEGAL in all or most cases
28 Situations in which abortion should be allowed
14 No situations where abortion should be allowed

26
:

Legal Legal Illegal Illegal NET NET
in all in most in most in all (VOL.) Legal in Illegal in
cases cases cases cases DK/Ref all/most all/most
Jul 17-21, 2013 20 34 24 15 7 54 40
Oct 24-28, 2012 23 32 25 13 7 55 39
Apr 4-15, 2012 23 31 23 16 7 53 39
Nov 9-14, 2011 20 31 26 17 6 51 43
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 19 35 25 16 5 54 41
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 18 36 26 16 4 54 42
Jul 21-Aug 5, 2010 17 33 27 17 7 50 44
August 11-27, 2009 16 31 27 17 8 47 45
April, 2009 18 28 28 16 10 46 44
Late October, 2008 18 35 24 16 7 53 40
Mid-October, 2008 19 38 22 14 7 57 36
August, 2008 17 37 26 15 5 54 41
June, 2008 19 38 24 13 6 57 37
November, 2007 18 33 29 15 5 51 44
October, 2007 21 32 24 15 8 53 39
August, 2007 17 35 26 17 5 52 43
AP/Ipsos-Poll: February, 2006 19 32 27 16 6 51 43
ABC/WaPo: December, 2005 17 40 27 13 3 57 40
ABC/WaPo: April, 2005 20 36 27 14 3 56 41
ABC/WaPo: December, 2004 21 34 25 17 3 55 42
ABC/WaPo: May, 2004 23 31 23 20 2 54 43
ABC/WaPo: January, 2003 23 34 25 17 2 57 42
ABC/WaPo: August, 2001 22 27 28 20 3 49 48
ABC/BeliefNet: June, 2001 22 31 23 20 4 53 43
ABC/WaPo: January, 2001 21 38 25 14 1 59 39
ABC/WaPo: September, 2000 (RVs) 20 35 25 16 3 55 41
ABC/WaPo: July, 2000 20 33 26 17 4 53 43
ABC/WaPo: September, 1999 20 37 26 15 2 57 41
ABC/WaPo: March, 1999 21 34 27 15 3 55 42
ABC/WaPo: July, 1998 19 35 29 13 4 54 42

26
Trend for comparison question is worded: Do you think abortion should be legal in all cases, legal in most cases, illegal
in most cases, or illegal in all cases, with the categories read in reverse order for half the sample.
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Q.124 TREND FOR COMPARISON CONTINUED
Legal Legal Illegal Illegal NET NET
in all in most in most in all (VOL.) Legal in Illegal in
cases cases cases cases DK/Ref all/most all/most
ABC/WaPo: August, 1996 22 34 27 14 3 56 41
ABC/WaPo: June, 1996 24 34 25 14 2 58 39
ABC/WaPo: October, 1995 26 35 25 12 3 61 37
ABC: September, 1995 24 36 25 11 4 60 36
ABC/WaPo: July, 1995 27 32 26 14 1 59 40

ASK ALL PHASE A:
Q.125 Thinking about the long term future of Social Security, do you think [READ AND RANDOMIZE]?
ASK IF ACCEPTABLE (Q125=1):
Q.125a Should Social Security be [READ AND RANDOMIZE]?
ASK IF UNACCEPTABLE (Q125=2):
Q.125b Should Social Security [READ AND RANDOMIZE]?

Jan 23-Feb 9
2014
31 Some reductions in benefits for future retirees need to be considered
6 Phased out as a government program
27

24 Maintained at a reduced level
67 Social Security benefits should not be reduced in any way
27 Cover more people, with greater benefits
37 Be kept about as it is

ASK ALL:
Q.126 Overall, do you approve or disapprove of the governments collection of telephone and internet data
as part of anti-terrorism efforts?

(U) (U)
Jan 23-Mar 16 Jan 15-19 Jul 17-21 Jun 12-16
2014 2014 2013 2013
42 Approve 40 50 48
54 Disapprove 53 44 47
5 Dont know/Refused (VOL.) 6 6 4

27
From Jan. 23 to Jan. 29, 2014, item read: Phased out completely.
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ASK ALL:
Q.126 Overall, do you approve or disapprove of the governments collection of telephone and internet data
as part of anti-terrorism efforts?
ASK IF APPROVE IN PHASE A (Q126=1):
Q.126a Do you think the National Security Agency should be allowed to collect whatever data it needs, or
should there be limits on what it collects?
ASK IF DISAPPROVE IN PHASE A (Q126=2):
Q.126b Do you think the National Security Agency should be prevented from collecting any data about U.S.
citizens, or should it be allowed to collect some limited information?

Jan 23-Feb 9
2014
28

41 Approve
15 NSA should be allowed to collect whatever data it needs

26 Should be limits on what NSA collects
54 Disapprove
15 NSA prevented from collecting any data on citizens
38 NSA should be allowed to collect some limited information

ASK ALL PHASE C:
Q.C127 In general, do you think affirmative action programs designed to increase the number of black and
minority students on college campuses are a good thing or a bad thing?

Feb 27-Mar 16 May
2014 2003
29

63 Good thing 60
30 Bad thing 30

ASK ALL PHASE C:
Q.C128 Do you favor or oppose building the Keystone XL pipeline that would transport oil from Canadas oil
sands region through the Midwest to refineries in Texas?

Feb 27-Mar 16 Sep 4-8 Mar 13-17
2014 2013
30
2013
61 Favor 65 66
27 Oppose 30 23


28
Q126a and Q126b asked in Phase A (Jan 23-Feb 9, 2014) only. Q126 data in this table is based only on interviews
conducted in this period.
29
In May 2003, question appeared after a series of questions about affirmative action.
30
In September 2013 and March 2013, question was asked as part of a list.
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ASK ALL PHASE C:
Next,
Q.C135 Which comes closer to your view? [READ AND RANDOMIZE]
ASK IF EVOLVED (Q.C135=1):
Q.C135a And do you think that[READ OPTIONS AND RANDOMIZE]?

(RPL)
Feb 27-Mar 16 Mar 21-Apr 8 Apr 28-May 12
2014 2013 2009
61 Humans and other living things have evolved over time 60 61
Humans and other living things have evolved due to natural
34 processes such as natural selection 32 32
A supreme being guided the evolution of living things for the
purpose of creating humans and other life in the form it exists
23 today 24 22
Humans and other living things have existed in their present
34 form since the beginning of time 33 31

Q.C135/Q.135a TREND FOR COMPARISON:
Some people think that humans and other living things [INSERT; RANDOMIZE]. Others think
that humans and other living things [INSERT; RANDOMIZE]. Which of these comes closest to
your view?
IF VED, ASK: And do you think that[READ AND RANDOMIZE]?

July July
2006 2005
51 Evolved over time 48
Humans and other living things have evolved due to natural
26 processes such as natural selection 26
A supreme being guided the evolution of living things for the
21 purpose of creating humans and other life in the form it exists today 18
42 Existed in their present form since the beginning of time 42


ASK ALL PHASE B:
Q.B139 Which comes closest to your view? [READ IN ORDER]
[Holy book: If Christian or no religion (RELIG =1-4, 9, 10, 12, 13 OR CHR=1) insert the
Bible; If Jewish (RELIG =5), insert the Torah; If Muslim (RELIG=6), insert, the
Koran; If other non-Christian affiliations (RELIG=7,8,14 OR (RELIG=11 AND CHR=2,9)),
insert the Holy Scripture; IF DK/REF IN RELIGION (RELIG=99) AND CHR=2,9, insert
"the Bible"]
ASK IF BELIEVE HOLY BOOK IS WORD OF GOD (Q.B139=1):
Q.B139a And would you say that [READ IN ORDER]?

Feb 12-26 Jul 21-Aug 5 August
2014 2010 2009
65 [Holy book] is the word of God 68 69
[Holy book] is to be taken literally,
33 word for word [OR] 34 34
Not everything in [Holy book] should
32 be taken literally, word for word/Other/DK 33 35
30 [Holy book] is a book written by men and is not the word of God 23 23
5 Other/Dont know (VOL.) 9 8

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ASK ALL:
PARTY In politics TODAY, do you consider yourself a Republican, Democrat, or independent?
ASK IF INDEP/NO PREF/OTHER/DK/REF (PARTY=3,4,5,9):
PARTYLN As of today do you lean more to the Republican Party or more to the Democratic Party?

(VOL.) (VOL.)
No Other (VOL.) Lean Lean
Republican Democrat Independent preference party DK/Ref Rep Dem
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 22 31 41 3 1 2 17 17
Feb 14-23, 2014 22 32 39 4 1 2 14 17
Jan 15-19, 2014 21 31 41 3 1 2 18 16
Dec 3-8, 2013 24 34 37 3 * 2 17 15
Oct 30-Nov 6, 2013 24 32 38 4 * 2 16 14
Oct 9-13, 2013 25 32 37 3 1 3 16 18
Sep 4-8, 2013 26 32 38 3 1 1 17 15
Jul 17-21, 2013 19 29 46 3 * 2 19 18
Jun 12-16, 2013 23 33 39 3 * 2 17 15
May 1-5, 2013 25 32 37 2 1 3 14 16
Mar 13-17, 2013 26 33 34 3 1 3 14 15
Yearly Totals
2013 23.9 32.1 38.3 2.9 .5 2.2 16.0 16.0
2012 24.7 32.6 36.4 3.1 .5 2.7 14.4 16.1
2011 24.3 32.3 37.4 3.1 .4 2.5 15.7 15.6
2010 25.2 32.7 35.2 3.6 .4 2.8 14.5 14.1
2009 23.9 34.4 35.1 3.4 .4 2.8 13.1 15.7
2008 25.7 36.0 31.5 3.6 .3 3.0 10.6 15.2
2007 25.3 32.9 34.1 4.3 .4 2.9 10.9 17.0
2006 27.8 33.1 30.9 4.4 .3 3.4 10.5 15.1
2005 29.3 32.8 30.2 4.5 .3 2.8 10.3 14.9
2004 30.0 33.5 29.5 3.8 .4 3.0 11.7 13.4
2003 30.3 31.5 30.5 4.8 .5 2.5 12.0 12.6
2002 30.4 31.4 29.8 5.0 .7 2.7 12.4 11.6
2001 29.0 33.2 29.5 5.2 .6 2.6 11.9 11.6
2001 Post-Sept 11 30.9 31.8 27.9 5.2 .6 3.6 11.7 9.4
2001 Pre-Sept 11 27.3 34.4 30.9 5.1 .6 1.7 12.1 13.5
2000 28.0 33.4 29.1 5.5 .5 3.6 11.6 11.7
1999 26.6 33.5 33.7 3.9 .5 1.9 13.0 14.5
1998 27.9 33.7 31.1 4.6 .4 2.3 11.6 13.1
1997 28.0 33.4 32.0 4.0 .4 2.3 12.2 14.1
1996 28.9 33.9 31.8 3.0 .4 2.0 12.1 14.9
1995 31.6 30.0 33.7 2.4 .6 1.3 15.1 13.5
1994 30.1 31.5 33.5 1.3 -- 3.6 13.7 12.2
1993 27.4 33.6 34.2 4.4 1.5 2.9 11.5 14.9
1992 27.6 33.7 34.7 1.5 0 2.5 12.6 16.5
1991 30.9 31.4 33.2 0 1.4 3.0 14.7 10.8
1990 30.9 33.2 29.3 1.2 1.9 3.4 12.4 11.3
1989 33 33 34 -- -- -- -- --
1987 26 35 39 -- -- -- -- --

ASK IF REPUBLICAN OR DEMOCRAT (PARTY=1,2):
PARTYSTR Do you consider yourself a STRONG [Republican/Democrat] or NOT a strong
[Republican/Democrat]?

Strong Not strong/ Strong Not strong/
Republican DK Democrat DK
Jan 28-Mar 16, 2014
31
11 11=22% 17 13=31%
Apr 4-15, 2012 14 10=24% 20 11=31%
Mar 8-14, 2011 12 12=24% 20 13=33%
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 14 10=24% 18 15=33%

31
Item was asked Jan. 28-Mar 16, 2014 (N=9,569). Party totals shown here may differ from PARTY because of this.
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PARTYSTR CONTINUED
Strong Not strong/ Strong Not strong/
Republican DK Democrat DK
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 14 10=24% 19 13=32%
Oct 28-Nov 30, 2009 13 12=25% 20 11=32%
April, 2009 12 10=22% 20 13=33%
October, 2007 (SDT) 13 12=25% 19 14=33%
August, 2007 14 12=26% 18 14=32%
July, 2007 16 11=27% 19 13=32%
June, 2007 13 12=25% 19 15=34%
April, 2007 14 11=25% 15 13=28%
January, 2007 12 11=23% 17 14=31%
Mid-November, 2006 14 11=25% 22 14=36%
Late October, 2006 14 12=26% 18 14=32%
Early October, 2006 15 12=27% 19 15=34%
September, 2006 17 13=30% 18 16=34%
December, 2005 16 13=29% 20 14=34%
December, 2004 18 13=31% 19 15=34%
July, 2004 17 12=29% 20 13=33%
August, 2003 14 13=27% 15 16=31%
September, 2000 14 13=27% 19 15=34%
Late September, 1999 10 14=24% 15 16=31%
August, 1999 11 14=25% 15 18=33%
November, 1997 11 14=25% 14 18=32%
October, 1995 11 19=30% 14 16=30%
April, 1995 15 15=30% 14 15=29%
October, 1994 16 15=31% 18 14=32%
July, 1994 13 16=29% 15 18=33%
June, 1992 11 17=28% 14 18=32%
May, 1990 13 15=28% 16 17=33%
February, 1989 15 16=31% 17 21=38%
May, 1988 13 15=28% 19 19=38%
January, 1988 12 15=27% 19 20=39%
May, 1987 11 14=25% 18 19=37%

QUESTIONS B140/B140b, B141/B141b HELD FOR FUTURE RELEASE

ASK ALL PHASE C REGISTERED VOTERS (REG=1) [N=2,653]:
Q.C142 Thinking about the elections you have voted in over the past several years, including national and
statewide elections. Would you say you [READ IN ORDER; REVERSE ORDER FOR RANDOM
HALF OF SAMPLE]?

Feb 27-Mar 16
2014
10 Always vote Republican
23 Usually vote Republican
23 Vote about equally for both parties
21 Usually vote Democratic [OR]
18 Always vote Democratic
1 Have never voted (VOL.)
2 Dont vote for either party/vote for other parties (VOL.)
2 Don't know/Refused(VOL.)


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ASK ALL REGISTERED VOTERS (REG=1) [N=7,999]:
Q.148 As you may know, primary elections, where parties select their nominees, take place in the months
before general elections. Thinking about the primary elections for Congress this year, do you
happen to know in what month your states primary will be held? [OPEN END; SINGLE PUNCH;
DO NOT READ, USE PRECODES, IF RESPONDENT IS NOT SURE, DO NOT PROBE, ENTER AS
DONT KNOW]

Jan 23-Mar 16
2014
12 Correct month given
17 Incorrect month given
69 Dont know/Refused

2 Lives in Louisiana
32

ASK ALL REGISTERED VOTERS (REG=1) [N=7,999]:
Q.149 And how often would you say you vote in Congressional PRIMARY elections? Would you say you
vote in Congressional primary elections [READ IN ORDER]?

33
:
Jan 23-Mar 16 Jan 15-19 Oct 9-13 Sep 4-8 Jul 17-21
2014 2014 2013
34
2013 2013
35 Always 42 52 50 46
22 Nearly always 22 18 24 23
17 Part of the time 16 16 13 13
24 Seldom or never 18 11 11 14
Not registered with party/
1 Cant vote in primaries (VOL.) -- -- -- --
1 Don't know/Refused (VOL.) 2 3 2 4

ASK ALL:
TEAPARTY2 From what you know, do you agree or disagree with the Tea Party movement, or dont you
have an opinion either way?

(VOL.) Not
No opinion Havent (VOL.) heard of/
Agree Disagree either way heard of Refused DK
Jan 23-Mar 16, 2014 18 28 51 1 2 --
Oct 9-13, 2013 19 32 46 2 2 --
Jul 17-21, 2013 18 25 52 4 1 --
Jun 12-16, 2013 22 29 46 2 2 --
May 23-26, 2013 17 20 56 3 4 --
Feb 14-17, 2013 19 26 52 2 1 --
Dec 5-9, 2012 18 29 50 2 1 --
Oct 31-Nov 3, 2012 (RVs) 19 29 47 1 3 --
Oct 4-7, 2012 19 25 52 2 2 --
Sep 12-16, 2012 18 26 53 2 2 --
Jul 16-26, 2012 16 27 54 2 1 --
Jun 28-Jul 9, 2012 19 27 49 3 2 --
Jun 7-17, 2012 21 25 52 2 1 --
May 9-Jun 3, 2012 16 25 54 2 3 --
Apr 4-15, 2012 20 26 50 3 2 --
Mar 7-11, 2012 19 29 48 2 2 --
Feb 8-12, 2012 18 25 53 2 2 --
Jan 11-16, 2012 20 24 52 2 2 --
Jan 4-8, 2012 18 25 52 2 3 --
Dec 7-11, 2011 19 27 50 2 2 --
Nov 9-14, 2011 20 27 51 1 1 --

32
In Louisiana, a congressional primary election is not held.
33
In Jan. 15-19, 2014 survey and earlier, question did not have the word Congressional.
34
In October 2013 and earlier, the fourth answer choice was Seldom instead of Seldom or never.
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TEAPARTY2 CONTINUED
(VOL.) Not
No opinion Havent (VOL.) heard of/
Agree Disagree either way heard of Refused DK
Sep 22-Oct 4, 2011 19 27 51 2 1 --
Aug 17-21, 2011 20 27 50 1 1 --
Jul 20-24, 2011 20 24 53 1 1 --
Jun 15-19, 2011 20 26 50 3 2 --
May 25-30, 2011 18 23 54 2 2 --
Mar 30-Apr 3, 2011 22 29 47 1 1 --
Mar 8-14, 2011 19 25 54 1 1 --
Feb 22-Mar 1, 2011 20 25 52 2 2 --
Feb 2-7, 2011
35
22 22 53 2 2 --
Jan 5-9, 2011 24 22 50 2 1 --
Dec 1-5, 2010 22 26 49 2 2 --
Nov 4-7, 2010 27 22 49 1 1 --
Oct 27-30, 2010 (RVs) 29 25 32 -- 1 13
Oct 13-18, 2010 (RVs) 28 24 30 -- 1 16
Aug 25-Sep 6, 2010 (RVs) 29 26 32 -- 1 13
Jul 21-Aug 5, 2010 22 18 37 -- 1 21
Jun 16-20, 2010 24 18 30 -- * 27
May 20-23, 2010 25 18 31 -- 1 25
Mar 11-21, 2010 24 14 29 -- 1 31

Q.150 PREVIOUSLY RELEASED

35
In the February 2-7, 2011, survey and before, question read do you strongly agree, agree, disagree or strongly
disagree with the Tea Party movement In October 2010 and earlier, question was asked only of those who had heard
or read a lot or a little about the Tea Party. In May 2010 through October 2010, it was described as: the Tea Party
movement that has been involved in campaigns and protests in the U.S. over the past year. In March 2010 it was
described as the Tea Party protests that have taken place in the U.S. over the past year.
Key to Pew Research trends noted in the topline:

(SDT) Pew Research Social and Demographic Trends
(U) Pew Research Center/USA Today polls
(WP) Pew Research Center/Washington Post polls
(RPL) Pew Research Religion and Public Life
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PEW RESEARCH CENTER
AMERICAN TRENDS PANEL WAVE 1
FINAL TOPLINE
MARCH 19-APRIL 29, 2014
TOTAL N=3,308
WEB RESPONDENTS N=2,901
PHONE RESPONDENTS N=407
36

ASK ALL:
Q.1 Below is a list of topics that some people are interested in, and others are not. Click on the topics
that you are interested in. You can click anywhere in each of the boxes to check the button.
[RANDOMIZE] [ALLOW MULTIPLE ANSWERS]

Mar 19-Apr 29, 2014
37

Based on Based on web
total respondents
[N=3,308] [N=2,901]
70 66 Health and medicine
61 57 Events in your community
59 58 Science and technology
58 57 Government and politics
53 48 Religion and spirituality
46 44 Entertainment and celebrities
44 41 Sports
43 40 Business and finance
41 40 Art and theater

ASK WEB RESPONDENTS ONLY:
ASK IF INTERESTED IN MORE THAN THREE TOPICS (Q1=1):
Q.2 Of the topics you are interested in, which ones are you most interested in? Choose up to three.
[KEEP TOPICS IN SAME ORDER AND POSITION AS Q1]

BASED ON TOTAL:

Mar 19-Apr 29
2014
Based on web
respondents
[N=2,901]
38

37 Health and medicine
36 Government and politics
32 Science and technology
28 Religion and spirituality
23 Sports
22 Events in your community
20 Entertainment and celebrities
16 Business and finance
14 Art and theater

NO QUESTIONS 3-6, 11-15, 26-29, 37-40
QUESTION 7-10, 16-25, 30-36 HELD FOR FUTURE RELEASE
QUESTION 41 PREVIOUSLY RELEASED

36
Question wording in this topline is that from the web version of the survey. For those questions asked on the phone,
wording was adapted slightly so that it could be asked over the phone. Question wording for the phone version of the
survey is available on request.
37
Percentages add up to more than 100% because multiple answers were accepted.
38
Percentages add up to more than 100% because up to three responses were accepted. These percentages also include
the responses of those who selected three or fewer topics in Q1, and thus were not asked Q2.
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ASK ALL:
Q.42 How much do you enjoy talking about government and politics with friends and family?

Mar 19-Apr 29, 2014
total respondents
[N=3,308] [N=2,901]
16 15 A lot
38 39 Some
31 31 Not much
15 14 Not at all
* 0 No answer

NO QUESTION 43

ASK ALL:
Q.44 Which of the following statements best describes you?

Mar 19-Apr 29, 2014
total respondents
[N=3,308] [N=2,901]
Most of my close friends share my views on government and
35 36 politics
39 41 Some of my close friends share my views, but many do not
I dont really know what most of my close friends think about
26 23 government and politics
* * No answer

NO QUESTIONS 45, 49-52
QUESTIONS 46-48, 53-60 HELD FOR FUTURE RELEASE

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PEW RESEARCH CENTER
AMERICAN TRENDS PANEL WAVE 3
FINAL TOPLINE
MAY 5-27, 2014
TOTAL N=3,243
WEB RESPONDENTS N=2,906
MAIL RESPONDENTS N=337
39

SELECTED QUESTIONS HELD FOR FUTURE RELEASE

RANDOMIZE ORDER OF BLOCK FAVPOL1 AND FAVPOL2; RANDOMIZE ORDER OF ITEMS IN EACH
BLOCK.
ASK ALL:
FAVPOL 1 What is your overall opinion of each of the following?

May 5-27, 2014 Never
-------Favorable------- ------Unfavorable------ heard of/
Total Very Mostly Total Very Mostly Not sure No answer
ITEM a HELD FOR FUTURE RELEASE

b. Paul Ryan 32 8 24 36 19 17 31 1

c. Elizabeth Warren 22 10 13 22 11 11 54 2

d. Mitch McConnell 16 2 15 34 17 17 47 2

e. Rand Paul 29 7 22 34 17 18 35 2

f. Hillary Clinton 54 21 33 41 25 15 4 1

RANDOMIZE ORDER OF BLOCK FAVPOL1 AND FAVPOL2; RANDOMIZE ORDER OF ITEMS IN EACH
BLOCK.
ASK ALL:
FAVPOL 2 What is your overall opinion of each of the following?

May 5-27, 2014 Never
-------Favorable------- ------Unfavorable------ heard of/
Total Very Mostly Total Very Mostly Not sure No answer
a. Ted Cruz 23 7 16 32 20 12 44 2

ITEM b HELD FOR FUTURE RELEASE

c. Nancy Pelosi 29 6 23 47 31 16 24 1

d. Marco Rubio 27 6 20 28 14 14 44 1

e. Jeb Bush 31 5 26 42 19 23 26 1

f. Chris Christie 32 5 27 41 17 24 25 2

39
Question wording in this topline is that from the web version of the survey. Question wording and format was adapted for
the paper questionnaire delivered by mail; this questionnaire is available on request.
177
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
www.pewresearch.org

RANDOMIZE ORDER OF BLOCK (ME1 AND ME2 1st vs. ME3 and ME4 1st); RANOMIZE ORDER OF
SET WITHIN BLOCK (e.g., ME1 1
st
vs ME2 1
st
)RANDOMIZE ORDER OF ITEMS IN EACH SET.
ASK ALL:
ME1 Which of these describes you well? (Check all that apply) [RANDOMIZE ITEMS]

May 5-27, 2014
Not selected/
Applies No answer
a. Hunter, fisher, or sportsman 24 76
b. Trusting person 65 35
c. Spiritual person 52 48
d. Fast-food lover 18 81
e. Upbeat and optimistic 59 41

RANDOMIZE ORDER OF BLOCK (ME1 AND ME2 1st vs. ME3 and ME4 1st); RANOMIZE ORDER OF
st
vs ME2 1
st
)RANDOMIZE ORDER OF ITEMS IN EACH SET.
ASK ALL:
ME2 Which of these describes you well? (Check all that apply) [RANDOMIZE ITEMS]

May 5-27, 2014
Not selected/
Applies No answer
a. Couldnt vacation without my smart phone 22 78
b. Honor and duty are my core values 52 48
c. Am sometimes uncomfortable being around
people not of my race 8 92
d. Think of myself as a typical American 65 34
e. Recycle and reuse as a daily habit 49 51

RANDOMIZE ORDER OF AGREE1 AND AGREE2
ASK ALL:
AGREE1 Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

I enjoy challenging the opinions of others.

May 5-27
2014
22 Strongly agree
50 Somewhat agree
21 Somewhat disagree
7 Strongly disagree
* No answer

ASK ALL:

It makes me uncomfortable when people argue about politics.

May 5-27
2014
12 Strongly agree
32 Somewhat agree
21 Strongly disagree
* No answer

178
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
www.pewresearch.org

ASK ALL:

Elected officials would help the country more if they would stop talking and just take
action on important problems.

May 5-27
2014
65 Strongly agree
27 Somewhat agree
7 Somewhat disagree
2 Strongly disagree
* No answer

ASK ALL:

I would vote against any elected official who voted to raise taxes.

May 5-27
2014
32 Strongly agree
28 Somewhat agree
13 Strongly disagree
1 No answer

RANDOMIZE ORDER OF BLOCK (ME1 AND ME2 1st vs. ME3 and ME4 1st); RANDOMIZE ORDER OF
st
vs ME2 1
st
) RANDOMIZE ORDER OF ITEMS IN EACH SET
ASK ALL:
ME3 Which of these describes you well? [Check all that apply] [RANDOMIZE ITEMS]

May 5-27, 2014

Applies
Not selected/
No answer
a. Video or Computer Gamer 21 79
b. Outdoor person 57 42
c. Libertarian 14 86
d. Religious person 46 54
e. Focused on health and fitness 42 57

RANDOMIZE ORDER OF BLOCK (ME1 AND ME2 1st vs. ME3 and ME4 1st); RANDOMIZE ORDER OF
st
vs ME2 1
st
) RANDOMIZE ORDER OF ITEMS IN EACH SET
ASK ALL:
ME4 Which of these describes you well? [Check all that apply] [RANDOMIZE ITEMS]

May 5-27, 2014

Applies
Not selected/
No answer
a. Sports fan 36 64
b. Rarely worry what others think of me 52 48
c. Compassion and helping others are my core values 74 26
d. Often feel proud to be American 56 44
e. Skeptical of medical experts recommendations 23 77

179
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
www.pewresearch.org

ASK ALL:
TRANSPORT Thinking about a typical month, how often, if ever, do you use public transportation? (That
is a bus, subway or rail system.)

May 5-27
2014
9 More than once a week
3 Once a week
10 Once or twice a month
78 Never
1 No answer

ASK ALL:
INVEST Which of the following best describes your own level of investment in the stock market?
[RANDOMIZE OR ROTATE ORDER OF RESPONSE OPTIONS 1 AND 3]

May 5-27
2014
3 I trade stocks and other funds pretty regularly
I have some long-term investments like retirement accounts,
42 but dont trade stocks regularly
54 I dont have any money in the stock market
1 No answer

ASK ALL:
GUN1 Do you happen to have any guns, rifles or pistols in your home?

May 5-27
2014
34 Yes
63 No
3 No answer

ASK ALL:
UNIONHH Are you or is anyone in your household a member of a labor union?

May 5-27
2014
8 Yes, I am
6 Yes, someone else in household
2 Yes, both myself and someone else
83 No, nobody in household
1 No answer

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